THE    FALL   OF   THE   ALAMO. 


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THE    FALL   OF   THE  ALAMO 

AN    HISTORICAL    DRAMA 

IN    FOUR    ACTS 
CONCLUDED  BY  AN  EPILOGUE  ENTITLED 

THE     BATTLE    OF    SAN     JACINTO 


BY 

PROFESSOR   FRANCIS    NONA 


Sunt  hie  etiam  sua  prccmia  laudi. — Virgil's  ^jseid,  I,  461. 


NEW  YORK 
G.  P.  PUTNAM'S  SONS 

182  Fifth  Avenue 

1S79. 


F3f3 

■  'b 


CoPYRiGHt  BY  G.  P.  Putnam's  Sons,  1879. 


Bancroft  Library 


TO  COLONEL  THOMAS  W   PEIRCE. 

OF   BOSTON,   MASSACHUSETTS, 

this  work  is  respectfully  dedicated  by 

THE  AUTHOR 


DRAMATIS   PERSONJE. 

Antonio    Lopez  de  Santa   Anna,    Dictator  of  Mexico,  and    Com- 
mander-in-Chief of  the  Mexican  Army. 
Don  Martin  Pre/ecto  Cos^ — his  brother-in-law,  and  General  in  the  Mex- 
ican Army. 
Don  Manuel  Fer?ta7idez  Castrillon, — General  in  the  Mexican  Army. 
Don  Francesco  Diique^ — Colonel  in  Mexican  service. 
jfuan  N.  Almonte^ — Colonel  and  Aide-de-Camp  to  Santa  Anna. 
John  Davis  Bradburn, — A  native  of  Tennessee,  who,  having  entered 
the  Mexican  service,  commanded  the  Fort 
of  Anahuac  in  the  year  1832. 
Elsie  Bradburn, — his  Daugfhter. 

William  B,  Travis,— A  resident  of  Anahuac  in  the  year  1832,  and 
Commander  of  the  Texan  Volunteers  at  the 
Alamo  in  the  year  1836. 
James  A,  Travis, — his  brother,  seventeen  years  old. 
Colonel  David  Ci'ockett^ — Hunter,  Scout,  Congressman,  and  Champion 

for  Texan  liberty. 
Colonel  yaffles  Bowie^ 
Major  Evans^ 
Captain  Kimble^ 
LietUenant  Z>^i:^/«jtf;/,— Commanders  of  Texan  Volunteers  under  Wra. 

B.  Travis. 
Colonel  y,  B,  Bonham^ — Colonel  of  Texan  Volunteers. 
Rev,  IV,  P,  Smithy — Chaplain  of  the  Texan  Volunteers  at  the  Alamo, 
Samuel  i¥(?«;.r/^«,— Commander-in-Chief  of  the  Texan  Army  at  the  San 

Jacinto. 
Edrvard  Burleson^ — Colonel  in  the  Texan  Army. 
Frank  W,  Johnston^ — Colonel  of  Texan  Volunteers. 
J-ohn  JV,  Smithy — called  Deaf  Smith,  scout  to  General  Houston. 
John  Austin^ 
Wm.  7.  Russell, 

IVm,  H.  yack^ — Natives  of  the  United  States,  residing-  in  Texas  in  the 
year  1832. 


VI  DRAMATIS    PERSONS. 

Don  Lorenzo  Zavala^ — Texan  Patriot. 

S.  B.  Patcho^ — Captain  in  Mexican  service,  stationed  at  Anahuac. 
Jose  P7'ado^ — Servant  to  Santa  Anna. 

A  Surgeon. — A  Jailer. — American  Colonists,  residing  in  Texas. — Texan 

Volunteers. — Mexican  Soldiers. 

SCENE. 

First  Act :  Partly  at  Velasco,  partly  at  Anahuac,  in  the  year  1832. 
Second^  Third  and  Fourth  Acts  :  In  and  around  the  Alamo,  in  February 

and  March,  1836. 
Epilogue :  At  the  San  Jacinto  River,  April  21,  1836. 


THE   FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 


ACT   FIRST. 
Scene   I. 


Colonists  of  Stephen  Austin  s  A?nerican  Colony  at  Bra- 
zoria [situated  near  Fort  Velasco)  are  seen  engaged 
at  work  in  the  fields.  At  a  given  signal  they  assem- 
ble in  the  centre  of  the  stage ^  John  Austin  and  Wm. 
y.  Russell  occupying  a  conspicuous  place  among  them. 

John  Austin. 
Again  the  pleasant  shades  of  eve  descend 
And  counsel  us  to  close  this  day's  account. 
So  let  us  go  and  homeward  wend  our  steps ; 
And  as  in  countries  far  across  the  main 
The  vesper-bell  tolls  through  the  mellow  air 
Of  eventide  the  thankful  offerings 
Of  dying  day, — so  we,  our  labors  done, 
Our  thoughts  abstracted  from  our  work's  concern, 
Will  let  our  joyful  feelings*  gratitude 
Ring  through  our  hearts,  while  homeward  we  proceed. 
A  sanctuary  of  God,  but  lately  sprung 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 


From  His  creating  hand,  thus  seem  to  me 
These  virgin-fields,  so  fresh,  so  still,  so  grand 
Where  nearer  wafts  His  breath  into  my  heart, 
Where  clearer  speaks  His  presence  to  my  mind, 
Where  louder  peals  His  voice  into  my  ear. 
Here,  as  each  day  succeeds  its  predecessor, 
It  leaves  engraven  on  my  memory 
The  luxury  of  every  breath  I  drew, 
The  spell  of  every  gaze  I  cast  about, 
Withal  a  soul-felt  record  of  delight. 
Behold  this  emerald  sea  of  waving  meads. 
Hedged  round  by  fields  aglow  with  gaudy  flowers 
Which,  swelling  to  the  dim  horizon's  brink. 
By  roseate  tints  blend  earth  and  evening-sky. 
While  through  the  clear,  transparent  atmosphere 
Those  forest-groves,  like  as  Elysian  Isles, 
Seem  slowly  sailing  o'er  the  grassy  main 
In  golden-green  and  amber-colored  light. 
Fair  Italy  may  boast  her  sunny  clime, 
Greece  may  extol  her  azure-sky's  abyss. 
The  Rhine  parade  his  valley's  loveliness, — 
They  cannot  match  this  blessed  Texan  land 
Which  every  day  grows  dearer  to  my  heart. 

Wm.  J.  Russell. 
Thou  art  quite  right,  my  friend  ;  I,  too,  enjoy 
This  happy  climate's  grateful  benefits, 
Marked  out,  meseems,  for  Labor's  paradise. 
With  golden  harvests  here  the  friendly  ground 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 


Amply  rewards  the  yeoman's  easy  toil, 

Whose  sweating  brow  the  ocean  breezes  fan, 

Whose  worn-out  strength  the  cooling  nights  restore. 

If  anywhere  upon  this  earthly  round 

Kind  Nature  meant  to  found  a  temple-shrine 

For  liberty,  her  sister,  it  is  here, — 

It  is  this  land  she  thus  has  blest  and  hallowed. 

Why  now  must  man's  ambitious  avarice 

Come  here  to  desecrate  this  sanctuary 

By  discord,  hatred  and  impassionate  strife  ? 

Yet,  it  is  so,  and  hence  the  fearful  thought. 

That  on  some  future  day  the  bitter  choice 

Will  dawn  on  us,  to  leave  these  happy  shores, 

Or  else  to  bow  our  necks  to  tyranny, 

Stands  like  a  night-mare's  dread  my  mind  before, 

And  galls  with  care  my  every  moment's  joy. 

Nor  are  the  coming  tempest's  signs  obscure  : 

Our  cherished  constitution  overthrown, — 

Our  chartered  rights  repealed  or  trodden  down, — 

The  frowning  forts  the  Mexicans  have  built 

Here  at  Velasco  and  Tenoxtitlan, 

At  Nacogdoches  and  at  Anahuac, 

Not  to  relate  their  officers'  and  soldiers' 

Offences  'gainst  our  property  and  lives, — 

All  these  point  clearly  to  their  base  designs, 

Which,  even  now,  they  hardly  care  to  hide. 

Austin. 
Keep  cheerful,  friend  !  the  threatening  thunder  storm 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 


May  yet  pass  by  as  harmless  as  the  Norther 
That  will  at  times  sweep  over  our  domain. 
And  only  tends  to  purify  the  air. 
E'en  now  the  better  class  of  Mexicans 
Who  honestly  aspire  their  country's  weal 
And  wish  to  see  her  rise  o'er  party-strife, 
Sustain  our  patient  course  ;  and  who  can  tell, 
If  not,  as  quickly  as  the  tide  recedes, 
The  ruling  faction  in  that  changeful  State, 
To-morrow  e'en,  may  weaken  and  succumb  ? 

Russell. 

I  cannot  share  thy  faith  in  Mexicans  ; 

Save  but  a  few  enlightened  of  their  people, 

They  all  behold  with  eyes  of  livid  envy 

Our  industry  and  our  prosperity. 

To  see  this  land  beneath  our  stalwart  arms 

Bloom  like  a  rose,  to  see  our  flocks  increase. 

To  see  our  towns  alive  with  trade  and  craft. 

Our  bays  and  streams  with  sail,  our  roads  with  teams, 

Excites  their  selfishness  and  avarice. 

Therefore  it  matters  not  what  faction  rules  : 

Our  lands  and  rights  will  ever  be  endangered. 

Austin. 

What  if  they  are  ?     The  higher  we  esteem  them. 
Men  only  prize  what  they  have  gained  through  peril. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 


Russell. 
An  insecure  possession  is  no  blessing; 
It  drains  our  strength,  exhausts  our  energy. 

Austin. 
What  is  secure  on  earth  ?     We  only  can 
Fulfil  our  duty,  leave  the  rest  to  God. 

Russell. 
Man  acts  and  God  assists,  yet  here  we  must 
Leave  all  to  God,  as  we  can  nought  accomplish. 

Austin 

Can  we^not  seize  our  trusty  swords  and  fight 
And  die  like  men,  if  nothing  else  avails  ? 

Russell. 
'Twere  madness  to  expect,  that  single-handed 
Or  with  a  few  thou  couldst  oppose  nine  millions. 

Austin. 
Not  single-handed,  not  a  few,  my  friend  ! 
Three  thousand  of  our  countrymen  we  count 
In  this  domain,  each  equal  to  ten  thousands 
Of  Mexicans  through  strength  of  will  and  hope, 
Through  love  of  freedom  and  through  trust  in  God. 
Here  round  us  stand  our  countrymen  in  silence, 
Which  louder  yet  than  futile  words  proclaims 
The  stout  resolve  that  thrills  their  gallant  hearts. 
Ask  each,  if  he  no  sooner  rave  his  blood, 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 


His  life,  his  all,  ere  he  agrees  to  part 
With  one  iota  of  his  '  Bill  of  Rights  !' 

A  Colonist. 

'Tis,  Squire,  as  thou  hast  said.     When  we  behold 

Our  dearest  prize,  our  liberty,  assailed. 

We'll  know  full  well,  how  to  defend,  to  guard  it. 

All. 

Aye,  aye,  we  shall. 

Russell. 

Dear  friends  !  forgive  if  I 
Could  doubt  your  courage  even  for  a  moment ; 
My  bosom  throbs  in  harmony  to  yours, 
And  long  ago  I  nursed  the  self-same  thoughts. 
Though  1  forbade  my  lips  to  utter  them 
From  delicate  regard  for  you  who  have 
Wives,  children,  homesteads,  all  of  whom  you  risk. 

\Fervidly?\^ 
Begone  then,  cheerless  scruples,  timid  faith  ! 
Where  so  inspired  brave  hearts  thy  cause  embrace, 
Where  so  resolved  stout  arms  contest  for  thee. 
Thou  need  not  tremble,  holy  Liberty  ! 
The  ocean's  wrath  may  beat  against  these  shores. 
The  tempest's  fury  rave  against  our  doors, 
The  tyrant's  myrmidons  o'erflow  this  land, — 
Yet  ever  firm  and  safe  thy  fane  will  stand. 


THE  FA  LI    OF  THE  ALAMO. 


Austin. 
Tis  well  for  us  to  have  meanwhile  exchanged 
Our  mutual  thoughts,  e'en  though  the  despot's  grain 
He  here  has  sown,  is  not  yet  ripe  for  harvest. 
Hence  let  us  wait  and  watch,  ere  we  proceed 
To  force  and  arms  ;  for  alway  these  remain 
A  last  resort,  e'en  in  a  righteous  cause. — 
But  see  that  horseman  coming  toward  us 
In  anxious  haste,  with  loosened  rein ;  his  steed 
Is  decked  with  foam  and  blood  on  flank  and  bit. 
Who  can  he  be  ?     'Tis  Jack  !     What  may  he  bring  ? 
\Some  colonists  go  to  meet  Jack^  and  to  lead  him  before 
the  men  assemhled?[ 

SCENE    II. 

Enters    Wni.  H.   Jack,  who  is   cordially  greeted  by  all 
present, 
Austin. 
Both  joy  and  grief  are  apt  to  wing  our  feet ; 
Which  of  the  two,  friend  Jack,  has  urged  thy  haste  ? 

Jack. 
Oh  !  would  I  were  Joy's  fleeting  messenger  ! 
But  as  it  is,  no  mission  is  so  sad 
As  mine,  since  it  announces  misery 
For  every  homestead  in  the  land  ;  'tis — War  ' 

Austin. 
It  cannot  be  !     Speak  plainly,  friend  ! 


8  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Jack. 

So  list ! 
Scarce  had  the  mail  from  Vera  Cruz  arrived 
At  Fortress  Anahuac  yestereve 
When  Colonel  Bradburn,  its  commander,  sent 
A  squad  of  soldiers  to  the  town,  who  seized 
My  brother  Patrick  Jack  and  William  Travis 
And  Munroe  Edwards,  took  them  to  the  fort, 
And  without  hearing,  without  trial  locked 
Each  separately  into  a  prison-cell. 

Russell. 
Has  Colonel  Bradburn  a  sufficient  cause 
To  warrant  this  unusual  proceeding.^ 

Jack. 
His  only  warrant  is  that  stale  excuse 
Of  servile  knaves  :  his  duty  to  obey 
His  master's  order,  whether  right  or  wrong. 

Russell. 
But  is  it  proven  he  has  received  such  order  ? 

Jack. 
He  has,  of  which  this  document  bears  witness, 
Which  he  transmitted  unto  Nacogdoches 
E'en  yestereve  through  one  of  his  couriers. 
Though  intercepted  by  our  vigilance 
He  and  his  letter  never  reached  that  place. 
\He  hands  the  letter  to  Austin.] 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 


Austin. 
\Reads  aloud J\ 
To  the  commanders  of  the  garrisons 
In  every  Texan  fort  and  post  our  greeting  : 
Whereas  we  are  most  credibly  informed, 
That  every  day  the  spirit  of  defiance 
'Gainst  our  authority  grows  rampant  more 
Among  your  colonists  to  whom  we  gave 
The  privilege  of  settling  on  our  lands, — 
You  are  advised,  to  use  your  utmost  power, 
That  the  rebellious  spirit  may  be  curbed, 
To  this  effect  imprison  every  person 
Whose  discontent  is  shown  in  writ  or  word 
And  check  the  influx  from  the  United  States. 
As  has  the  statute  never  been  repealed 
Which  says,  that  persons  of  our  Catholic  Faith 
Alone  can  hold  positions  and  estates 
In  Mexico,  it  is  herewith  revived. 

Don  Juan  Bustamente,  President. 

The  colonists^  in  utter  astonishment^  remain  silent  for 
awhile  j  then  break  forth  into  almost  simultaneous 
expressions  of  indigtiation. 

A  Colonist. 
Our  friends  imprisoned  without  law  or  cause  ! 

Another. 
Our  speech  o'erawed,  our  liberties  assailed  1 


lO  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

A  Third. 
Our  faith  attacked,  our  property  endangered  ! 

A  Fourth. 
We  cannot,  will  not  bear  it  ! 

All. 

We  must  fight. 
Jack. 

Not  to  forestall  your  brave  decision,  friends, 

I  have  till  now  withheld  from  you  the  knowledge 

Of  the  resolve,  to  which  your  countrymen 

At  Nacogdoches  and  at  Anahuac, 

Imbued  like  you  with  deepest  indignation, 

Have  come  :  it  is,  to  storm,  this  very  night. 

The  forts  which  there  the  Mexicans  have  raised. 

Austin. 

What,  friends,  is  then  your  wish,  that  here  be  done  ? 

A  Colonist. 
Captain  !  I  move,  that  following  the  example 
Set  by  our  countrymen,  we  storm  to-night 
The  Fort  Velasco. 

Another. 

I  support  that  motion. 
Austin. 
'Tis  moved  and  seconded,  that  we  to-night 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  I  I 

Attack  and  storm  the  fortress  at  Velasco. 
Who  are  in  favor  of  the  motion  ? 

All. 

Aye. 

Austin. 

Who  vote  against  it  ?     None  ?     The  motion  is  carried. 

\A  solemn  silence^ 

Russell. 
[  With  inspiration^ 
As  gathered  in  their  azure  ocean's  sight 
The  noble  Greeks  hurled  back  the  despot's  threat, — 
As  at  their  crystal  glaciers'  feet,  by  night. 
To  break  their  yoke,  the  gallant  Switzers  met, — 
As  our  forefathers  on  the  common's  green 
Assembled  to  protest  'gainst  wrongs  of  power, — - 
So  we  amid  our  prairie-evening  scene 
Uplift  our  hands  at  this  inspiring  hour, 
To  call  to  witness  God  in  Heaven  above, 
That  not  our  will,  but  sorest  need  alone 
Calls  us  to  arms,  to  shield  what  most  we  love, 
Our  faith,  our  rights,  the  hearth  and  home  we  own. 
He  who  has  freed  the  others  through  His  hand 
Will  not  withhold  His  aid  from  this,  our  land. 

Austin. 
Time  presses,  friends  !  so  let  us  homeward  haste, 


12  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Prepare  our  arms,  call  out  our  countrymen, 
And  gather  at  my  door  two  hours  from  now. 
To  storm  the  fort,  when  night  has  spread  her  shade. 

\^Exeiuit^^ 

Scene  III. 

A  gloomy  vault  in  the  Fort  of  Aiiahuac^  lighted  by  one  sin- 
gle window  near  the  ceiling.  Opposite  to  the  side 
which  contaifis  the  window^  is  an  adjoining  dungeon, 
from  which  Wm.  B,  Travis  steps  forth,  absorbed  in 
deep  reverie. 

In  prison  !  Ha  !  w^hy  startles  me  this  name 

All  of  a  sudden,  which  like  other  words 

Of  daily  speech  I  hitherto  pronounced 

Unmoved,  unstirred,  scarce  thinking  of  its  import  ? 

Why  now  rebels  my  inmost  soul  against 

This  sound,  as  though  it  were  a  mournful  dirge  ? 

Why  dreads  my  foot  to  step  upon  this  floor 

That,  cold  and  stern,  sends  shudders  through  my  frame  ? 

Why  sinks  my  head  involuntarily 

Betwixt  my  shoulders,  wishing  there  to  hide 

Against  this  frowning  ceiling's  pressing  weight  ? 

Why  shrinks  my  hand  to  touch  these  circling  walls 

That  slowly,  stealthily,  with  every  moment 

Seem  drawing,  creeping  closer  up  to  me  ? 

Because  here  is  the  sum  of  human  horrors, 

The  acme  of  distress,  a  living  grave, 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  1 3 

The  thought  of  which  appals  the  hero's  courage, 

And  pales  still  more  the  coward's  fear-blanched  cheek. 

\He  steps  on  a  chair  standing  beneath  the  grated  window 

and  looks  without^ 
In  prison  !  ah  !  and  beams  not  there  the  sun 
Which  our  Creator  poised  upon  the  arch 
Of  heaven  to  shine  alike  on  good  and  bad, — 
The  sun  through  which  all  beings  live  and  thrive, 
To  which  the  tiniest  blossom  turns  its  eye, 
Without  which  Heart  and  Nature  grow  a  waste  ? 
And  spread  not  there  "  the  gardens  of  the  desert,* 
The  swelling  prairies,  quick  wath  life  and  motion, 
And  farther  off,  near  the  horizon's  brink, 
The  glassy  main,  as  free  and  wide  as  they, 
To  whose  expanse  and  breeze-pervaded  air 
Man's  spirit  feels  a  kindred  intimate. 
When  over  them  he  strides  or  sails  away  ? 
There  goes  the  daring  hunter  with  elastic  step 
And  hopeful  breast,  to  lurk,  to  spring,  to  conquer ; 
There  sails  the  buoyant  mariner  to  brave 
The  tempest's  rage,  to  venture  and  explore  ; 
There  rides  the  thoughtful  merchant  on  his  route 
To  bargain  and  to  risk  and  win, — all,  all 
With  bosoms  thrilled  by  wishes  and  desires 
Which  to  pursue  and  gain  forms  their  delight. 

YHe  steps  dawn,^ 
In  prison  !  ah  !  and  what,  if  it  enshrines 
The  height  of  sorrow,  the  abyss  of  woe? 


14  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

It  is  as  well  the  soil  for  hujnan  greatness, 
The  atmosphere  of  highest,  noblest  virtue. 
Its  solitude  has  nursed  the  poet's  fancy, 
The  martyr's  faith,  the  hero's  stout  resolve, 
And  Socrates,  St.  Paul  and  Galileo 
Found  here  the  source  of  their  immortal  thoughts. 
When  Truth  and  Courage  thrill  the  bosom's  cells, 
When  Love  of  God  distends  the  heart's  confines, 
The  gates  give  way,  the  circling  walls  are  rent, 
The  unchecked  spirit  vaults  the  frail  barrier. 
And  like  an  eagle,  free  and  high  in  air,    ' 
It  soars  aloft  to  reach  the  source  of  Light. 

In  prison  !  ah  !  and  bear  I  not  as  well 

A  precious,  priceless  germ  within  my  breast 

That  I  may  propagate  and  fondly  cherish 

Beneath  this  thought-inspiring  atmosphere. 

Till  it  attain  a  higher,  fuller  growth, — 

The  conscious,  deep,  all-sacrificing  love 

For  this,  my  country,  which  e'en  now  has  spread 

A  tangled  network  through  my  veins  and  feelings  ? 

As  fairest  blooms  the  lovely  hyacinth 

That  charms  our  eye  in  winter's  frosty  clime. 

When  nursed  beneath  the  tepid  cellar-air, 

So  also  7ny  ideal  shall  germinate 

From  here  to  joy  my  winter  through  its  bloom. 

This  prison — Heaven  record  my  vow — shall  be 
The  place  of  birth  of  Texan  Liberty. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 


Scene  IV. 

Elsie  Bradburn^  admitted  by  the  jailer  through  the  door 
in  the  rear^  has  entered  during  Travis'  last  words 
which  she  has  overheard^  and  stands  for  a  inoment 
quietly  behind  him, 

Travis. 
[Turning  and  perceiving  Elsie  ^  who  sinks  into  his  arms.^ 

What  ?  Elsie,  thou  ? 
Elsie. 

My  Travis  !  thou  in  prison 
Unjustly,  most  unworthily  confined  ! 
Than  whom  none  else  delights  so  much  in  sunshine, 
In  balmy  air,  in  freedom  from  restraint. 
Thou  canst  not  live  beneath  this  damp-cold  vault, 
But  wilt  fall  sick,  and  as  the  prairie-flower, 
Transferred  into  a  sunless  room,  will  fade. 
So  thou  canst  not  endure  this  cruel  doom. 

Travis. 

Grieve  not,  beloved !  since  I  hold  thee  now, 

This  dungeon  seems  a  paradise  to  me  ! 

Behold  these  walls  !  they  bloom  like  rosy  bowers  ; 

This  ceiling  spreads  a  verdant  canopy 

Through  which  the  sun,  the  sun  of  Love,  sends  in 

His  warming  beams  into  my  gladdened  heart. 

But  tell,  how  couldst  thou  gain  access  to  me  ? 


l6  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Elsie. 

Oh,  Travis  !  my  unmaidenlike  transgression, 
In  what  a  light  must  it  appear  to  thee  ? 

Travis. 

Unmaidenlike,  thou  sayest !  Ah,  as  high 

As  are  the  heavens  above  the  earth,  as  wide 

As  lies  the  East  divided  from  the  West. 

So  is  thy  step  from  impropriety. 

'Tis  true,  the  charm  of  gentle  womanhood 

Blooms  in  the  even  path  of  sweet  retirement. 

In  the  pursuit  of  calm  domestic  life 

O'er  which,  as  Springtime  strews  the  earth  with  flowers 

She  sheds  a  grace  of  loveliness  and  peace. 

And  wantonly  to  overstep  these  bounds. 

By  nature  set,  is  to  destroy  her  balance. 

But  when  the  hand  of  stark  Necessity 

Has  broken  in  upon  a  woman's  fate 

And  threats  to  tap  her  feeling's  holy  fount, 

When  staking,  offering  up  her  all  for  one, 

When  disregarding  usage,  scorn  and  power, 

Acknowledging  no  law  save  this  :  her  love, — 

At  last  she  rises  like  an  earth-born  Titan 

And  irresistibly,  victoriously 

Clears  every  obstacle  that  blocks  her  way. 

She  adds  the  highest  earthly  glory  then, 

A  heroine's  halo,  to  her  womanly  crown. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  1/ 

Elsie. 

Ah  !  were  I  free  to  soar  that  lofty  flight 

To  which  my  spirit's  impulse  leads  me  on  I 

Alas  !  so  soon  I  try  to  rise,  I  feel 

The  sinews  of  my  pinions  cut  in  twain 

Through  fatal  powers  which  hold  me  to  the  ground. 

Thou  seest  my  father,  an  American, 

Deaf  to  his  better  nature's  inward  voice, 

Blind  to  the  sad  results  of  his  career, 

Employed  in  deep-disgraceful  vassalage 

To  tyranny,  whose  orders  he  obeys 

Implicitly  with  servile  doggedness. 

As  if  to  gain  his  master's  sneering  praise 

Made  up  his  glory's  highest  aspiration. 

To  drown  his  bosom's  stern  reproof,  to  kill 

His  honor's  glimmering  spark,  he  has  enwrapt 

His  reason  with  the  ice  of  self-made  doctrines 

Which,  ah  !  my  tears  have  tried  in  vain  to  melt, 

And  woven  round  him  a  net  of  sophistry 

Through  which  my  prayers  not  yet  could  penetrate. 

Oh,  it  is  hard,  when  filial  lips  which  ought 

To  overflow  with  tender  reverence, 

Must  breathe  reproach  alone  and  accusation 

'Gainst  one  whom  fain  we  would  respect  and  worship. 

Travis. 

Interpret  not  my  hesitating  counsel 
I  give  thee  now,  as  cruel  egotism  ! 


1 8  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

As  oft  to  save  a  life  by  wounds  imperiled 

A  surgeon  hazards  some  unusual  cure, 

So  also  on  the  battle-field  of  Life 

A  false  position  and  a  wayward  course 

May  oft  be  righted  by  a  daring  step 

Which  in  the  eyes  of  men  may  meet  with  censure, 

But  gains  its  palm  before  the  eye  of  God. 

Withdraw  from  here  a  while,  if  still  thy  father 

Persists  to  be  the  tyrant's  ready  tool, 

And  from  the  distance  lure  him  on  to  thee 

By  frequent  proofs  of  unchanged  filial  love. 

He  soon  will  feel  the  utter  loneliness 

That  yawns  around  him  here,  the  aimlessness 

Of  his  career,  and  yearning  to  rejoin 

The  only  heart  that  on  this  earthly  round 

Still  beats  for  him,  he  will  depart  from  here. 

The  first  step  which  he  takes  to  reach  the  ship 

That  carries  him  to  thee,  will  disentangle 

The  Gordian  Knot  of  his  embarrassment. 

Elsie. 

It  cannot  be  !     A  sacred  vow  has  chained 

My  destiny  forever  to  his  lot. 

My  mother,  well  foreseeing  at  her  death 

The  threatening  crisis  which  must  overtake  him 

Inevitably  as  wrongs  of  heart  or  mind 

Draw  after  them  remorse  and  punishment, — 

Exacted  from  my  lips  this  oath,  that  never 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  1 9 

I  would  desert  my  father's  side,  as  long 

As  he  continues  in  this  baneful  service, 

But  watch,  a  guardian  angel,  over  him, 

Till  I  behold  his  life-ship  safely  anchored 

Upon  the  roadstead  of  his  native  land. 

Alas  !  since  then  his  headstrong  will  has  lashed 

To  still  more  furious  haste  and  maddened  run 

The  fiery  steeds  that  draw  his  chariot 

Which  neither  tears  nor  prayers  of  mine  could  stay. 

Instead  of  hovering  o'er  his  fate-doomed  path 

As  friendly  and  inspiring  genius, — 

I  self  behold  me  dragged  resistlessly 

With  every  moment  farther  from  the  start, 

Where  left  behind  me  lies  the  blooming  wreath 

Of  all  my  fondest  hope  and  happiness; 

Where  stand  my  friends  in  sorrow  o'er  my  fate. 

But  impotent  to  check  my  doomed  career. 

So  wretched  must  the  exile  feel,  who  leaning 

Against  the  vessel's  bord,  that  bears  him  'way 

Sees  more  and  more  his  native  country's  coast 

Fade  out  of  sight,  till  it  is  gone  for  ever. 

Travis. 

Ah  !  it  is  so  !  and  clearly  now  I  see, 
How  by  my  course  I  added  to  thy  woe. 
The  attitude,  which  I  have  here  assumed, 
Of  bold  defiance  to  thy  father's  will 
Must  even  more  embitter  him  and  cause 


20  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Still  greater  grief  to  thee.     This  must  be  changed. 
I  will  resign  my  dirties  here,  when  freed, 
And  leave  this  country,  elsewhere  to  await 
Our  union  under  fairer  auspices. 

Elsie. 

And  thinkest  thou  so  mean  of  me,  thy  maiden, 

That  I  would  cheer  this  plan  by  my  assent. 

Which,  if  pursued,  at  once  would  controvert 

The  glorious  mission  thou  hast  set  before  thee  : 

To  free  this  country  from  the  tyrant's  yoke  ? 

No,  no  !  thou  only  spakest  so  to  try  me, 

To  test  my  spirit's  metal,  if  it  were 

Not  all  too  far  below  thy  lofty  standard. 

Behold  !  when  entering  here  a  while  ago, 

I  overheard  thy  vow,  sent  from  a  spot 

Whose  very  air,  as  mildew  blights  the  flowers, 

Is  death  to  hope  and  courage,  then  meseemed 

I  saw  a  radiant  halo  o'er  thy  head 

Through  which  in  fiery  letters  blazed  the  words  : 

"  His  patriotism  will  realize  his  vow  !" 

Should  I  then  meanly,  selfishly  divert 

Thy  manly  race,  bold  as  the  torrent's  sweep, 

Into  the  path  of  common-place  stagnation  ? 

Should  I,  short-sighted,  narrow-minded,  wrest 

The  palm  of  fame  and  victory  from  thee  ? 

Should  I,  in  fear  about  my  happiness. 

For  ever  blast  the  hopes  of  many  thousands  ? 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  2  1 

No,  Travis,  no  !  when  beams  thy  name  resplendent 

Upon  the  heaven  of  glory  and  renown, 

May  then  with  it  the  woeful  history 

Of  my  resigning  sacrifice  be  blent 

To  serve  as  proof,  that  for  her  country's  freedom 

A  Texan  maiden  deems  no  price  too  high. 

Travis. 

Now  art  thou  wholly  as  I  wished  to  find  thee  1 
Oh,  happy  I !  since  for  me  beats  and  throbs 
The  noblest  heart  that  ever  dwelt  in  woman  ! 
But  think,  beloved  !  can  no  way  be  found 
To  spare  from  thee  this  woeful  suicide 
Of  every  hope  and  earthly  joy,  whom  thus 
Resigningly  thou  lay'st  on  Freedom's  altar  ? 

Elsie. 

If  there  exists  a  way,  it  lies  with  us. 

But  not  with  thee  ;  thy  cause  is  great  and  just, 

And  must  remain  so,  like  the  polar-star's 

Unaltered  station  on  the  starlit  sky. 

So  it  is  we^  it  is  my  father's  course 

That  must  be  changed,  if  all  shall  yet  be  well. 

That  would  restore  thy  freedom  at  a  time 

When  needs  this  land  thy  arm  and  counsel  most  ; 

That  would  enroll  with  active  sympathy 

His  heart  and  mine  upon  the  patriot's  side  ; 

That^  that  alone,  if  Heaven  should  will  it  so, 


2  2  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Would  blend  our  lives,  as  now  our  hearts  are  blended. 

Hence  I  will  go  and  try  once  more  to  move  him 

By  fervid  prayer  to  which  I  mean  to  add 

My  strongest  argument,  my  treasured  secret, 

The  sweet  confession  of  my  love  for  thee. 

Hence  pray,  that  He,  who  melts  the  earth  in  fire 

May  touch  my  father's  bosom  and  inspire 

My  speech  to  break  the  rigor  of  his  heart. 

Beloved,  fare  thee  well !  I  must  depart. 

\Travis  acco7npanies  Elsie  to  the  door  in  the  rear^  through 

which  she  leaves  the  prison.      This  done,  he  himself 

enters  the  chamber  at  the  side,^ 


Scene  V. 

Col.  Bradburfis  room  in  the  Fort  of  Anahuac.  Col. 
Bradburn  stands  near  a  table  in  the  centre  of  the 
roo?7ty  holding  a  letter  in  his  hand. 

^'  One  hundred  thousand  dollars  in  the  bank 
Of  Vera  Cruz  inscribed  to  thy  account!" 
My  agent  writes — At  last  I  have  attained 
My  life-work's  goal  and  crown  ;  the  longed-for  day 
Whose  coming  joy  through  all  these  weary  years 
Has  warmed  my  life,  that  day  has  now  arrived. 
Why  then  so  gloomy  and  cast  down,  my  heart  ? 
Alas  !  the  wealth  I  wrung  from  unkind  Fortune 
By  dint  of  patience  and  devoted  service, 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 


E'en  now  her  cruel  hand  withholds  from  me, 

And  by  a  treacherous  breach  of  confidence 

She  asks  me  to  perform  some  overwork, 

Before  I  can  obtain  my  well-earned  fee. 

For  the  intention  to  resign  my  post, 

So  soon  the  prize  should  be  within  my  reach, 

I  must  defer  in  face  of  this  revolt 

Which  hydra-like  lifts  its  defiant  head 

Before  my  very  eye-sight  in  this  land. 

To  leave  it  now  in  this  disordered  state. 

To  seize  my  wealth,  to  flee  with  it  abroad, 

Is  out  of  question  ;  the  suspecting  eye 

Of  Despotism  would  soon  detect  my  motive 

And  find  in  it  a  good  pretense  to  lay 

His  grasping  hand  upon  my  property. 

Was  it  a  wicked  spirit's  tempting  voice 

That  seven  months  ago^  when  ninety-thousand 

Were  not  enough  for  me,  has  shut  and  deafened 

My  ear  and  heart  to  Elsie's  tearful  prayers  1 

So  true  it  is,  that  Fortune's  envious  powers, 

In  their  dislike  to  man's  self-shapen  course, 

Will  quietly  oft  allow  him  to  approach 

His  prize,  when  lo  !  't  is  wrested  from  his  hand. 

But  courage,  Bradburn  !  why  these  mournful  thoughts, 

When  not  a  cloud  yet  darkens  thy  horizon  ? 

Proceed  to  work,  e'en  though  the  task  be  weary. 

And  see  how  it  may  swiftest  be  accomplished  ! 

\He  meditates  a  brief  while,  then  exclaims  exultingly  .•] 


24  TFIE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

E'en  now  I  have  it ;  yea  !  I  found  the  way  ! 

The  obstacle  that  keeps  me  from  my  prize 

Shall  be  the  very  bridge,  o'er  which  I  reach  it. 

I  will  hand  o'er  to  the  authorities 

Of  Mexico  for  judgment  and  garotte 

The  captured  leaders  of  this  base  revolt, 

That  Jack,  that  Travis  and  that  Edwards, 

Which  clearly  will  attest  my  loyalty. 

Will  call  me  hence  for  presence  at  the  trial. 

And  pave  withal  a  way  for  my  retirement ! — 

Retirement !  happy  thought  !  sweet  as  the  balm 

Of  eventide  upon  a  sultry  day, 

When  for  the  dismal  gusts  of  wintery  care 

The  slumberous  peace  of  quiet  summer-eve 

Shall  permeate  my  bosom's  corridors, 

As  swells  an  organ's  long-drawn  harmony 

Through  a  majestic  minster's  colonnades, — 

When  gratefully,  as  sees  the  husbandman 

His  harvest-wagon's  last  return,  I  shall 

Enjoy  in  ease  my  labor's  benefits, — 

When  my  old  age  shall  be  prolonged  and  cheered 

By  her,  for  whom  alone  I  took  on  me 

These  mounts  of  care,  these  centuries  of  sorrow. 

My  daughter  Elsie. 

\He  turns  abruptly  with  aprofouiid  horror  J\ 
Who  is  here  ?  \with  astonish7nent\  No  one  ? 
And  yet  meseemed,  as  if  a  stealthy  step 
Had  crept  behind  me  and  an  ice-cold  hand 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  2$ 

Had  lightly  tapped  my  shoulder, 

\_Smi7mg  emlfarrassedfy.\ 
It  was  nought, 
Nought  save  perhaps  a  draught,  an  ocean-breeze. 
I'll  close  the  window  ! 

[In  the  act  of  shutting  it  he  looks  without ?[ 
Ha  !  what  means  that  flash 
Of  sunny  light,  like  a  reflex  of  arms  ? 
And  moves  not  there  a  band  of  weaponed  men, 
In  far  off  distance  o'er  the  hazy  plain  ? 

\Seizing  a  telescope^  he  surveys  the  neighborhood^ 
Once  more  my  fancy  has  belied  my  eye  ; 
It  is  a  forest-isle  I  so  mistook 
That  mute  and  still  lies  on  the  prairie's  breast. 
Still,  as  precaution  is  the  sire  of  wisdom, 
I'll  go  and  send  my  cavalry  to  scour 
The  country  o'er,  and  order  to  enforce 
The  guards  upon  the  walls  and  at  the  gates. 

Scene  VI. 
When  Bradburn  goes  toward  the  door,  Elsie  enters. 

Elsie. 
My  father,  stay  !   grant  me  a  moment's  hearing  ! 

Bradburn. 
Defer,  I  pray,  till  later  thy  request  ; 
For  urgent  business  claims  my  presence  elsewhere. 


26  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 


Elsie. 

[Clinging  to  hi)n?\ 

I  must  not,  can  not !  see  as  Jacob  spake, 
As  writes  the  Book  :  ^'  I  will  not  let  thee  go> 
Except  thou  bless  me  !"  even  so  I  say ! 

Bradburn. 

And  what,  I  ask,  makes  thy  demand  so  pressing  ? 

What  is  its  purport  ?  matters  newly  risen. 

Or  merely  a  rehearsal  of  the  old  ? 

Were  it  the  last,  my  time  might  well  be  spared. 

Elsie. 

And  has  not  yet  a  voice  within  thy  breast 

A  spark  of  light  before  thy  mind  arisen, 

That  tell  thee  where  thy  way  must  lead  thee  to  ? 

A  wand'rer,  unacquainted  with  the  road 

Thou   chosest  one,  that  seemed, — but  only  seemed, 

A  safe  and  worthy  way  to  travel  on  ; 

Thy  choice  was  wrong,  in  judgment,  not  in  heart. 

But, — when  tliine  every  step  thou  onward  takest 

Shows  thee  thy  error  and  reveals  to  thee 

What  dread  abysses  lie  thy  path  beside. 

Which  deepening,  yawning,  more  and  more,  invade  • 

Its  breath  and  menace  its  continuance, — 

When  from  afar  a  kindly  warning  voice, 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  2J 

Thrilled  by  the  truest  prophecy  of  love, 
Beseeches  thee,  implores  thee,  to  retract 
Thy  wayward  steps,  and  thou,  thou  hearest  not, — 
Thy  error's  slight  offence  becomes — a  crime  ! 

Bradburn. 
Tut,  tut,  my  child  !  I  cannot  see,  why  now 
My  Avay  is  all  at  once  so  dangerous, 
So  criminal,  as  when  I  entered  it. 
The  land  we  live  in,  its  society, 
Its  kind  relations  to  the  neighboring  states. 
Are  they  not  quite  the  same  as  formerly  ? 

Elsie. 
My  father,  they  are  not,  for  if  they  were 
Thou  wouldst  not  hear  thy  daughter's  pleading  voice. 
When  broke  the  Mexicans  the  Spanish  yoke. 
Ten  years  ago,  then  for  some  time  indeed, 
A  free  and  lofty  spirit  thrilled  the  race. 
Well  worthy  of  our  countrymen's  support. 
But  ah  !  too  soon  the  wakened  flame  died  out. 
Too  soon  they  bowed  to  thraldom  worse  than  erst. 
Too  soon  they  proved  the  axiom's  truth,  that  people, 
Unable  to  sustain  by  strength  of  arm  and  mind 
Their  freedom,  merit  not  its  blessed  boons. 
When  priest-craft  took  the  reins  of  government 
Into  its  hands,  when  civil  feuds  arose. 
And  from  their  whirpools  selfish  autocrats 
Sprung  up  as  mushrooms  will  from  rotten  soil, 


28  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Already  then  thy  time  was  to  resign. 

But  thou  didst  not,  and  now  a  vengeful  fate, 

Or,  much  I  fear,  thy  master's  base  designs 

Have  placed  thee,  where  a  new  embarrassment. 

Still  more  a  source  of  danger,  joins  thy  others. 

Thou  shalt — such  is  thy  stern  superior's  will — 

Oppress  the  colonists,  thy  countrymen, 

Shalt  act  the  tyrant's  part  to  those  whose  hearts, 

As  thine  should  do,  detest  that  very  name. 

And  shalt  oppose  the  will  of  Providence, 

Which  here  through  them  intends  to  found  a  state, 

As  free  and  glorious  as  their  native  Union. 

Against  such  odds  thy  might  cannot  prevail. 

E'en  though  thine  army  numbered  many  millions  ; 

Thou  must  succumb,  with — what  is  worst — disgrace. 

Bradburn. 
Who  gave  thee  such  ideas  ?     To  found  a  state 
With  such  materials  as  they  here  exist  ? 
Such  thoughts  dwell  only  on  the  lips  and  brains 
Of  men  who  in  disorder  and  rebellion 
Expect  to  reap  the  harvest  of  their  schemes, 
Of  demagogues,  such  as  that  William  Travis, 
That  Patrick  Jack,  that  Munroe  Edwards  are. 

Elsie. 
Nought  is  beknown  to  me  of  Jack  or  Edwards, 
Though  people  tell  me  they  are  worthy  men  ; 
\Fervidly^ 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  29 

But  William  Travis,  father,  I  feel  bound 
With  all  that  is  within  me  to  defend. 

Bradburn. 
And  knowest  thou,  my  daughter,  him  so  well  ? 

Elsie. 
That  thou  wilt  lightly  from  my  pleading  tell. 
I  claim  for  Travis  no  unusual  dower ; 
No  talent's  gift,  no  learned  wisdom's  power, 
No  eloquence,  no  spell  of  wit  are  his. 
But  what  he  owns  in  fullest  scope,  is  this : 
An  honest  heart  within  a  noble  breast, 
A  harmony  of  truth  that  lies  exprest 
O'er  soul  and  body,  over  thought  and  deed, 
Whose  blended  charm  the  blindest  eye  can  read. 
His  gait  and  stature,  manly  and  erect, 
A  character  of  moral  strength  reflect  ; 
His  eye,  clear  as  the  sapphire  firmament. 
Bespeaks  his  bosom's  tender  sentiment. 
His  vaulted  brow  betokens  ardent  zeal 
For  Mankind's  highest  interest  and  weal, 
And  all  these  virtues, — wouldst  thou  know,  from  whence 
They  spring  ? — it  is  his  faith  in  Providence  ! 

Bradburn. 
I  cannot  err, — Elsie  !  thou  lovest  him  ! 

Elsie. 
Father,  I  do  !     My  heart  resistlessly 


30  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Went  out  to  him  as  if  by  witchery. 
Though  he  be  far,  I  fancy,  that  his  eye 
Upon  me  casts  its  glances  from  on  high  ; 
His  voice  rings  in  my  ear  both  day  and  night, 
His  figure  ever  stands  before  my  sight, 
Of  him  I  think,  when  I  my  vigils  keep, 
Of  him  I  dream,  when  I  am  wrapt  in  sleep. 

Bradburn. 
And  knows  he,  pray,  thy  ardent  love  for  him  ? 

Elsie. 

Why  should  he  not  ?  when  this  life's  highest  weal, 
This  heaven  on  earth,  when  all  I  am  and  feel 
Are  due  to  him,  when  through  his  magic  word 
My  latent  powers  are  from  their  slumber  stirred ; 
When  through  the  inspiration  from  his  soul 
My  spirit  wings  its  flight  to  higher  goal. 
When  the  possession  of  my  treasured  prize 
Makes  hundredfold  my  self-esteem  arise — 
O,  father,  father  !  come  what  may,  this  love 
Will  be  my  happiness  here  and  above. 

Bradburn. 

My  child  !  the  dreams  of  youthful  age  are  nought 

But  the  reflection  of  its  rosy  cheeks; 

These  gone,  the  dreams  are  gone,  which  proves  too  well 

Their  fleeting  worth,  their  idle  vanity. 

A  better  bottom  than  their  quicksand  is 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 


Required  to  lay  a  firm  foundation  wall 
Whereon  to  frame  a  happy  life  ;  such  ground, 
Is  wealth,  is  rank,  are  family  connections. 
These  once  obtained,  their  benefits  secured, 
Life's  other  Graces  follow  in  their  wake. 
The  first  two  are  e'en  now  in  my  possession ; 
Through  prudent  husbandry  and  skilful  trade 
I  have  amassed  a  fortune,  while  my  title. 
Well-earned  in  service,  will  command  respect. 
So  it  is  caste  alone,  which  I  still  need. 
That  shall  wipe  out  my  offspring's  low  descent 
And  link  my  name  with  races  of  renown. 
For  it  must  be  a  glorious  consciousness 
To  trace  one's  lineage  upward  on  the  rounds 
Of  generations  to  the  grayest  age. 
This  latter  to  secure  depends  on  thee, 
Depends  upon  thy  alliance  with  the  scion 
Of  some  old  house  whom  thy  accomplishments, 
Thy  wealth,  thy  father's  rank  will  easily 
Secure  for  thee.     Therefore  it  is  my  plan  : 
That  we  return  to  the  United  States, 
My  native  country,  as  it  was  thy  mother's, 
There  settle  down  in  ease  and  affluence. 
And  self-contented,  envied  and  respected. 
Ascend  the  smooth  and  level  road  that  leads 
Into  the  hermitage  of  our  old  age. 

Elsie. 
How  long  ere  thou  wilt  enter  on  this  journey  ? 


32  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Bradburn. 
So  soon  I  have  suppressed  this  insurrection. 

Elsie. 

Then  wilt  thou  never  see  thy  plan  fulfilled, 
And  it  is  best  so,  as  thy  gross  injustice 
Were  certain  to  react  on  thee  as  curse 
Whose  magnitude  my  spirit  dreads  to  fathom. 
Far  better  in  both  nature  and  result 
Would  be  the  plan  which  I  have  in  my  mind. 

Bradburn. 

Make  proof  then  of  thy  ingenuity  ! 

Elsie. 

Espouse  the  cause  of  Texas  with  the  zeal 
Thou  hitherto  hast  squandered  on  her  tyrants ; 
Enroll  thee  as  the  patriots'  stoutest  friend 
As  till  to-day  thou  wast  their  foremost  foe  ; 
Help  to  restore  this  land  to  Liberty 
As  thou  till  now  hast  labored  to  enslave  it. 
And  thine  will  be  a  rank  and  titled  name 
For  which  the  proudest  king  will  envy  thee. 
And  thine  will  be  a  wealth  untold  and  grand, 
Surpassing  far  the  treasures  of  the  East ; 
And  thine  will  be  a  fame  of  ancestry 
Of  which  thy  latest  progeny  will  boast. 
Is  that,  pray,  not  a  better  plan  than  thine  ? 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO, 


Bradburn. 
My  oath  of  fealty  bars  its  execution. 

Elsie. 
Resign  thy  office  and  thy  oath  is  void. 

Bradburn. 
The  Mexicans  will  confiscate  my  wealth. 

Elsie. 
So  forfeit  it  and  feel  relieved  in  conscience. 

Bradburn. 
Thou  knowest  not  the  pangs  of  poverty. 

Elsie. 
They  must  be  comforts  'gainst  the  pangs  of  shame. 

Bradburn. 
Why  ride  Rebellion's  billows,  when  our  barks 
Can  lie  at  anchor  in  the  haven  of  order  ? 

Elsie. 
A  gallant  ship  prefers  the  tempest's  wrath 
To  rotting  in  some  stagnant  navy-yard. 

Bradburn. 
'Tis  folly  to  emprise  an  undertaking 
Which  lacks  the  faintest  prospect  of  success. 

Elsie. 
Success  is  but  the  foot-rule  of  the  world  ; 
Right  is  the  measure  God  in  Heaven  applies. 


34  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Bradburn. 

And  if  thy  zeal,  thy  honesty  and  courage 
Could  win  me  o'er  to  thee  and  overthrow 
Mine  every  plan,  mine  every  principle, 
One  obstacle  will  always  still  remain, 
'Gainst  which  thy  arguments  cannot  prevail  : 
My  love   for  thee  !     To  think  thee  lone  and  helpless 
*Mong  strangers,  war  and  passionate  party-strife, 
I  cannot,  must  not,  dare  not  list  to  thee. 
Elsie. 
[/;/  utter  despair^  ] 
Again  thy  ear  is  deafened  to  my  prayers. 
Again  thy  heart  is  hardened  to  my  tears. 
Poor  father,  oh  !  how  wilt  thou  rue  it  once  ! 
For  come  it  will,  that  stark,  that  dreadful  hour. 
When  every  word  I  spake  just  now,  will  ring 
Within  thine  ear,  like  mockery  of  devils. 
When  every  tear  I  shed  just  now  will  burn 
Upon  thy  soul  like  drops  of  hellish  fire  ! 
Oh,  knewest  thou,  how  bleeds  my  heart  within  me, 
Couldst  thou  but  see  those  visions  'fore  my  mind, 
Couldst  thou  but  hear  the  warnings  in  my  ear. 
Thou  wouldst,  thou  wouldst  relent  for  thine  own  good 
'Tis  not  to  be  !     Let  God's  will  then  be  done  ! 

\P roceeding  more  calmly.  ] 
One  more  request  I  have  to  lay  before  thee. 
Thou  hast  upon  thine  own  authority. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  35 

Imprisoned  William  Travis  and  his  friends. 

So  promise  then  to  me,  that  e'en  to-morrow 

Thou  lawfully  wilt  try  the  charge  against  them. 

I  ask  no  favor,  or  for  me  or  them, 

I  only  plead  the  human  right  of  justice. 

As  is  the  sun  the  source  of  every  life, 

So,  so  is  Justice  Mankind's  other  light. 

As  /le  dispelled  the  chaos'  mighty  gloom 

So  led  /ler  genial  hand  the  human  race 

From  beastly  state,  when  might  alone  was  right, 

To  kinder,  purer,  better  sentiments ; 

As  without  /lim  no  being  could  exist. 

So  without  /ler  Life  were  a  baneful  curse  ; 

As  shine  /its  beams  alike  on  worm  and  lion 

So  equally  s^e  pours  her  benefits 

O'er  rich  and  poor,  and  o'er  the  weak  and  strong. 

Sin,  father,  not  against  her  holy  law, 

For  great  as  are  her  blessings,  is  her  vengeance. 

Bradburn. 

Remember,  child,  I  am  not  here  to  judge. 
But  only  to  attend  my  master's  orders  ; 
Yet  at  thy  pleading  I  will  fain  extend 
What  little  mercy's  scope  is  given  to  me^ 
Beyond  its  limits  e'en,  if  f/iey  deserve  it. 
To  prove  my  word's  sincerity  to  thee, 
I  instantly  will  speak  to  William  Travis. 

[He  taps  a  bell.     A  soldier  enfers^ 


36  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO, 

Inform  the  jailer  that  I  wish  to  see 

The  prisoner,  William  Travis,  led  before  me. 

\Exit  soldier^ 
Leave  us  alone  now,  child,  and  rest  convinced. 
That  day  and  night  my  every  thought  will  aim 
Thy  welfare  to  promote.     My  love  shall  yet 
Prepare  for  thee  a  radiant  sky  of  life, 
E'en  though  light  clouds  obscure  it  now.     Good  night. 

\He  kisses  Elsie  s  forehead.     Elsie  leaves  the  room  with 
signs  of  great  despondency^ 

Scene  VII. 

Bradburn  at  first  alone.    Afterwards  Travis, 

Bradburn. 
A  new  embarrassment  !     When  will  they  cease  ? 
As  if  conjured  by  some  magician's  wand, 
Who  bears  me  ill,  so  from  the  ground  they  start 
And  try  to  block  my  way  to  peace  and  rest. 
But  triumph  not  too  soon,  ye  cruel  powers  ! 
As  sailors  throw  the  deck-load  over-board 
To  save  their  battered  ship  from  total  wreck, 
So  shall  not  scruples,  hitherto  revered, 
Nor  principles,  observed  till  now,  debar  me 
From  the  reward  of  my  laborious  life. 
This  rising  spectre  of  my  daughter's  love 
For  that  rebellious  upstart  must  be  crushed, 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  37 

Crushed,  crushed^  by  every  means  that  might  controls. 
That,  right  or  wrong,  will  consummate  the  end. 
He,  first  of  all,  must  be  removed  from  here, 
Must  be  dishonored  in  my  daughter's  eye, 
For  which,  methinks,  I  know  a  proper  way, 
Provided  that  his  pride  will  not  defeat  it. 

\He  sits  down  at  the  table  to  write.     Enters  Travis^   es 

cor  ted  by  the  jailer?^ 
Leave  me  alone  a  moment  with  that  man. 

[Exit  jailer.  Bradburn  having  risen  and  standing  near 
the  table^  surveys  Travis  frofn  under  his  eye-brows , 
the  latter^  with  ar?7zs  crossed  over  his  breast^  stands 
frankly  before  him^ 

Well,  William  Travis,  must  I  still  behold  thee 

Maintaining  thy  defiant  attitude. 

Which  ill  becomes  at  any  time  a  captive, 

But  even  less  avails  as  hiding  mask 

The  base  destroyer  of  a  maiden's  peace  ? 

Abject  enough  is  an  ungrateful  rebel. 

But  language  fails  in  epithets  for  him 

Who  makes  a  trusting  maiden's  love 

The  ambuscade  of  his  nefarious  schemes. 

Travis. 

Thou  wieldest  here  the  sword  of  tyranny 
Unscrupulously;  why  then  delayest  thou 
To  join  with  it  thy  fatherly  revenge  ? 


38  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Bradburn. 

A  coward  hurls  his  bold  defiance  only 

When  feeling  him  secure.     Thou  knowest  well 

That  striking  thee,  I  also  strike  my  daughter. 

Travis. 
A  despot  rarely  makes  such  nice  distinctions. 

Bradburn. 
That  I  do  make  them  proves  thy  word  as  false. 

Travis. 
Words  oft  must  serve  as  substitutes  for  truth. 

Bradburn. 

Enough,  this  idle  interchange  of  speech 

Which  neither  mitigates  the  culprit's  guilt, 

Nor  elevates  the  judge's  majesty. 

The  packet-boat  lies  ready  at  the  wharf, 

To-morrow  even  to  convey  from  here 

To  Vera  Cruz  thee  and  thy  fellow  rebels 

For  trial  at  the  court  of  Mexico. 

Your  death  is  certain;  for  the  Mexicans, 

Justly  embittered  o'er  the  foreigners 

Who  wantonly  disturb  the  peaceful  realms 

Of  their  domain  by  stirring  strife  and  discord, 

Long  since  have  clamored,  that  a  stern  example 

Of  justice  should  be  meted  out  to  them. 

Therefore,  I  ween,  they  hardly  will  forgive  me 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  39 

If  I  deprive  them  of  the  welcome  show, 
To  see  three  prominent  Americans 
Transported  through  the  streets  of  Mexico 
Amid  the  hooting  of  the  populace. 
But  as  it  is,  they  must  this  time  forego 
The  spectacle,  unless  thy  stubbornness, 
Unwarranted  by  either  hope  or  fear, 
Force  me  to  disregard  my  daughter's  tears. 
Here,  sign  this  contract,  knowing  that  on  thee 
Depends  thy  life,  as  well  as  th.y  companions'. 

\Bradburn  hands  Travis  the  ?iote  he  had  been  writing 
at  the  latter  s  entrance^ 

Travis. 
\Redds  aloud. ^ 
This  is  to  certify  that  I  agree 
To  leave  forthwith  the  Mexican  domain, 
And  never  after  thither  to  return, 
If  Colonel  J.  D.  Bradburn  will  consent 
To  pay  into  my  hand  the  full  amount 
Of  thousand  dollars  gold  at  my  departure. 

[Jle  tears  the  paper  into  shreds^ 
Well,  well  conceived,  John  Bradburn!  this  design 
Does  credit  to  thy  ingenuity. 

\^S??iiling.^ 
The  more  a  pity,  that  it  must  remain 
Shelved  in  the  storehouse  of  thy  fertile  brain. 


40  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Bradburn. 

In  earnestness  I  made  to  thee  this  offer  ; 
What  then  provokes  thy  rude  hilarity  ? 

Travis. 

Forgive!  the  thought,  how  many  mice  John  Bradburn 

Aims  to  inveigle  in  a  single  trap, 

Just  now  appeared  to  me  quite  ludicrous. 

Bradburn. 
What  meanest  thou  ?     I  understand  thee  not. 

Travis. 

The  better  thou  art  understo5d  by  me. 
By  my  acceptance  of  thy  offered  bribe 
Thou  mean'st  to  place  me  as  a  renegade 
And  wretched  knave  before  my  countrymen  ; 
Thou  meanest  to  free  thee  of  a  bold  opponent, 
Who  e*en  in  fetters  is  to  thee  a  terror, — 
Thou  meanest  to  efface  my  name  inscribed 
Upon  thy  daughter's  heart  as  undeserving 
Her  love,  her  admiration,  her  esteem. 
And  what  is  the  equivalent  thou  givest  ? 
An  insult  couched  as  promise  in  disguise. 
When  not  the  wealth  of  all  the  earth  can  buy 
From  me  my  countrymen's  regard  and  friendship, 
My  zeal  for  freedom  and  thy  daughter's  love. 


THE  FALL  OF  TILE  ALAMO.  4 1 

Bradburn. 

\^Furiously^ 
Enough,  enough  !  henceforth  expect  the  worst ! 
Thou  shalt  yet  rue  thy  obstinate  refusal  ! 
In  chains  and  irons  like  a  criminal 
I'll  have  thee  laid  forthwith — I  will  to-morrow 
Send  thee  to  Mexico  ; — I  will — 

Voices  outside. 

Hurrah  ! 
\A  shot  fired  fro?n  without  shatters  a   window  in  CoL 
Bradburn' s  rooni^ 

Bradburn. 
\_Tre?fibling^ 
Ha  !  what  is  that  ?  what  can  this  noise  portend  ? 


Scene  VIII. 

A  great  confusion  and  the  footsteps  of  hurry  i^tg  persons  are 
heard  from  the  corridor  leading  to  Col.  Bradburn  s 
room.  The  door  is  violently  opened^  through  which 
several  Mexican  officers^  among  them  Capt.  Patcho^ 
enter,  all  greatly  excited, 

Patcho. 
Oh,  Cc'lonel,  we  are  lost !  a  band  of  rebels 
Have  scaled  our  outside  ramparts  by  surprise 


42  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

And  turned  our  cannon  'gainst  our  barrack-doors. 
Flight  or  resistance  are  alike  in  vain. 

Bradburn. 
Oh,  my  presentiment !     Why  slept  our  guards, 
And  failed  to  mark  the  enemy's  approach  ? 
Close  all  the  gates  immediately  and  place 
Two  men  at  every  window  ;  then  collect 
The  others  in  the  corridor  below, 
Prepared  for  the  sortie  I  myself  shall  lead. 
[  The  officers  rush  out,     Bradburn  having  locked  the  room^ 
the  key  of  which  he  leaves  i?i  the  lock^  follows  the7n.^ 

Travis. 

What  have  I  heard  ?     My  countrymen  are  here  7 
Have  occupied  their  ramparts,  seized  their  guns  ? 
Can  it  be  true,  and  should  the  blessed  hour 
Of  my  deliverance  have  approached  so  soon  ? 

[He  goes  to  the  window.'] 
Yes  !  it  is  true  !  for  there  they  stand  !     God  bless  them  ! 
[He  waves  his  pocket-handkerchief  .] 
Hail,  hail,  my  brave,  my  faithful  comrades,  hail ! 
To  save  your  friends  from  prison  and  from  death 
You  have  not  lost  an  hour,  but  thrown  aside 
Your  comfort,  your  employments  and  your  safety. 
Your  friendly  service  to  repay,  may  soon 
An  opportunity  arise  for  me  ! — 
But  is  it  possible  ?  and  see  I  right } 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  43 

There  Elsie  stands  among  them  !     How  came  she 
To  join  my  countrymen  ! 

\He  strikes  his  forehead  with  his  hands  ^ 
Oh,  loving  heart  ! 
Now  first,  now  I  divine  thy  stratagem. 
Thou  wast  the  guide,  that  brought  assistance  here, 
When  every  other  means  proved  unavaiUng  ! 
What  seemed  confused,  entangled  hopelessly, 
Quickly  the  magic  of  thy  love  dissolves  ; 
What  deemed  impossible  my  doubting  mind. 
Thy  loving  courage  lightly  executes. — 
But  see  !  what  means  that  joyful  agitation 
And  curious  flutter  'mong  my  countrymen  ? 
Ah,  I  observe  !  my  Elsie's  magic  charm 
Has  proved  effective  ;  for  a  flag  of  truce 
Advances  from  the  barrack-gate.     'Tis  Bradburn  ! 
How  hard,  how  grievous  must  his  every  step 
Appear  to  him  !  how  painful  his  defeat! 
How  ominously  he  must  around  him  feel 
The  pinions  of  the  gloomy  spirits  waft, 
Whose  counsels  lured  him  on  his  giddy  way. 
Whose  voices  shut  his  ear  and  heart  against 
The  warnings  of  his  better  genius, 
And  whose  triumphant  mockeries  and  sneers 
Now  point  him  to  the  wreck  of  all  his  plans. 
So  it  has  been,  and  so  't  will  ever  be  : 
The  harvest  sown  upon  the  poisonous  soil 
Of  tyranny,  will  bear  no  other  fruit 


44  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Save  ruin  and  disgrace  to  serf  and  master. 
But  see  !  the  parley  is  at  end  !  it  means 
Surrender  and  exchange  of  prisoners, 
As  I  infer  from  seeing  Elsie  freed 
From  her  captivity  :  will  she  come  here  ? 


Scene  IX. 

Enters  Elsie.     Travis  leaves  the  window  and  comes  lo 
meet  her. 

Elsie. 
Oh,  Travis  !  freedom  smiles  on  thee  again  ! 

Travis. 
And  twice  as  gratefully,  since  I  receive  it 
Given  through  thy  hands  and  from  thy  lips  announced. 

Elsie. 
Thou  know'st  what  has  occurred  ?     Pray,  tell  me  how  ? 

Travis. 
My  knowledge  rests  on  inference  alone. 
Since  I  beheld  thee  'mong  our  countrymen. 
Thy  own  lips  must  impart  to  me  thy  venture. 

Elsie. 
My  tale  is  brief.     Sad  and  disconsolate 
About  my  father's  unmoved  stubbornness, 
I  went,  while  yet  he  was  engaged  with  thee, 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  45 

To  seek  my  garden-arbor,  there  to  muse, 

And  weep  and  pray,  when  suddenly  there  sprang 

Armed  men  from  every  bush  and  every  shrub, 

Rushed  o'er  the  little  bridge  I  had  let  down. 

And  scaled  the  walls,  while  I  remained  their  captive, 

Who  served  as  welcome  hostage  in  their  hands. 

Travis. 
Thou  knew'st  then  nought  beforehand  of  their  coming  ? 
Thou  wast  then  not  the  guide  who  led  them  here  ? 

Elsie. 

Unconsciously, — I  see  it  now, — I  served 
As    means    through    which    thou     hast    regained    thy 
freedom. 

Travis. 

My  erring  mind,  dear  Elsie,  just  ascribed 
A  heroine's  glory  to  thy  conscious  deed. 
My  seeing  spirit  must  attribute  now 
That  higher  crown  to  thee,  an  angel's  halo  ! 
Oh  !  would  thou  couldst  forever  thus  remain 
My  intercessor  with  the  powers  of  fate ! 

Elsie. 

In  spirit,  yes !  through  daily,  hourly  prayer 

I'll  be  with  thee  as  friendly  genius. 

Though  now  our  ways  must  part  here,  since  my  father 

Will  henceforth  more  than  ever  need  my  aid. 


46  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Travis. 
Oh  !  must  the  glorious  dawn  of  Liberty, 
Oh  !  must  the  day,  that  oped  my  prison-door 
Consign  thy  life  to  night  ?'    It  cannot  be  ! 

Elsie. 

Yes,  it  is  night,  that  henceforth  will  enshroud 

My  soul  and  heart,  but  mind  thee  !  not  the  night 

Of  bleak  despair,  of  crying  agony  ; 

No,  that  of  holy  sadness  which  becomes, 

The  more  it  grows,  the  dearer  to  the  heart. 

For  from  afar  the  radiance  of  thy  course 

Will  cast  a  sweet  reflection  on  my  path, 

Not  too  resplendent  as  to  jar  by  contrast, 

And  not  too  feeble  as  to  fail  in  comfort. 

So  will  my  life  be  henceforth  like  a  chapel, 

Among  whose  sombre  aisles  and  colonnades 

The  sunlight,  falling  through  the  colored  panes. 

Pours  out  a  mellow-tinted  "clarobscuro,'* 

The  sweetest  light,  *neath  which  to  dream  and  pray. 

Travis. 

Oh,  happy  talent  of  the  female  heart, 

Whose  heavenly  instinct  knows  how  to  detect 

Some  light  upon  the  darkest  sky  of  sorrow. 

Some  hope  amid  the  wildest  sea  of  woe. 

Oh,  give  me  but  an  atom  of  that  balm, 

Thy  childlike  faith,  and  I  will  part  in  peace. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  47 

Elsie. 
Fain  I  extend  to  thee  that  comfort,  couched 
In  the  relation  of  an  incident 
Which,  though  it  happened  many  years  ago, 
Is  deeply  graven  on  my  memory, 
And  seems  to  me  a  fitting  simile 
To  show,  how  once  ow^  mystery  may  be  solved. — • 
When,  still  a  child,  I  tarried  with  my  father, 
Then  stationed  at  some  far-off  western  fort, 
We  were  beleaguered  by  a  furious  band 
Of  wild  Comanches,  who  with  yells  and  shots 
Essayed  to  storm  the  ramparts.     Overcome 
By  childish  fear,  I  hid  me  underneath 
The  altar  of  the  Mission.     So  concealed, 
I  trembling  sat  beneath  that  gloomy  spot. 
When  I  observed  amid  that  sombre  light 
An  iron  bolt.     I  pushed  it  back  and  raised 
A  secret  trap-door,  which  revealed  to  me 
A  frowning  passage-way.     With  fleeting  steps 
I  then  procured  a  torch,  and  by  its  light, 
Explored  the  yawning  path.     For  many  hours 
I  wandered  through  its  jet-black  gallery, 
Until,  arrived  upon  its  end,  there  burst 
The  glowing  sunlight  through  some  window-panes 
Upon  my  dazzled  eyesight.     I  had  reached 
Another  Mission,  far  remote  from  ours. 
Where  I  was  safe  from  injury  and  harm. 

[  With  the  highest  solemnity  of  inspiration?^ 


48  THE  FALL  OF  STHE  ALAMO. 

Dark  as  that  subterranean  corridor, 
So  lie  our  lives  our  anxious  gaze  before, 
Illuminated  only  by  the  glimmering  light 
Of  our  unwavering  love.     But  as  the  night 
Which  wrapt  my  transit  through  that  secret  way 
Was  changed  to  unexpected,  welcome  day, 
So,  top,  for  us  shall  dawn  the  glorious  hour. 
When  God,  the  Lord,  through  His  mysterious  power, 
Shall  re-unite  us,  nevermore  to  part ! 
Let  this  assurance  alway  cheer  thy  heart  ! 
Travis. 
[  With  great  enthusias7n^ 
Speaks    God   through   thee }    hast   thou   become    His 

angel. 
Such  as  of  old  proclaimed  His  truth  to  men  1 
It  is, — it  must  be  so,  as  thou  hast  said  : 
For  I  behold  it  in  the  radiant  beams, 
Shed  o'er  and  round  thee  with  transfiguring  glow  ; 
I  hear  it  in  thy  deep-inspired  tone, 
That  strikes  my  ear  with  heavenly  melody ; 
And  self  I  feel  it  in  the  fervid  ardor 
Which  has  replaced  my  bosom's  icy  chill  : 
Such  is  not  earthly  joy  ;  it  is  the  splendor 
Of  Heaven  above,  and  God  alone  its  sender. 
Elsie. 
\As  above.'] 
Yes,  trust  in  Him  !  pursue  thy  manly  way, 
Deliver  Texas  from  the  tyrant's  sway, 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  49 

Unwaveringly,  till  thou  hast  reached  the  goal, 
And  shouldst  thou  fall,  then  will  thy  Elsie's  soul 
Soar  hand  in  hand  with  thee  the  airy  flight 
To  yonder  homes  of  happiness  and  light, 
While  in  a  thankful'  nation's  memory 
Thy  name  and  hers  live  for  eternity. 

\A  long  embrace?^ 


Scene  X. 

Enters  Bradburn  with  a  paper  in  his  hand.  He  is  fol- 
lowed by  some  Mexican  officers^  who  station  them- 
selves on  the  left  side  of  the  stage.  Behind  them 
enter  Fra?ik  W.  Johnston,  commander  of  the 
patriots,  Don  Lorenzo  de  Zavala,  Wm.  H.  Jack,  and 
several  other  patriots,  who  occupy  the  right  side  of 
the  stage,  with  the  table  between  them  and  the  Mexi- 


Bradburn. 

[  Who  enters  a  little  in  advance  of  the  others,  steps  between 
Travis  and  Elsie. ^ 

Part ! 

Elsie. 
[  Waving  her  hand  to  Travis^ 
Fare  thee  well ! 


so  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Travis. 

\_Stepping  toufard  the  right J\ 
Fare  ever,  ever  well  ! 
\^Exit  Elsie^ 

Johnston. 

\Just  entering^ 
Hail,  Travis,  friend  !  thou  art  revenged,  art  free  ! 

Jack. 

[Coming  behind  Johnston^  to  Travis.^ 
Thank  God,  thou  livest  still  !     Our  fears  are  calmed. 

Zavala. 
[Following  Jacky  likewise  addressing  Travis^ 
Have  now  thy  pupils  earned  their  master's  praise  ? 
Travis. 

[Shaking  hands  with  all,^ 

Thanks,  thanks  to  all  of  you  ;  no  more  I  say  ! 
Your  kindness,  friends,  has  opened  every  sluice 
That  in  my  heart  held  back  the  founts  of  joy. 
Which  unobstructed  now  burst  forth  and  drown 
Each  word  of  thanks,  as  on  my  lips  it  steps  : 
The  better  shall  my  future  deeds  bespeak  them. 

Bradburn. 
[  JVho,  immediately  after  his  entry,  had  sat  down  at  the 
table,  to  copy  the  articles  of  surrender  agreed  upon, 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  5  I 

has  finished  them  now^  and  signaling  to  two  Mexican 
officers  to  sign  them^  rises  from  his  seat^  and  addresses 
the  Texans.^ 

The  articles  are  ready  to  receive 

Your  signatures  :  yet  ere  they  are  affixed, 

Ere  by  the  pen  you  irrevocably 

Will  ratify  the  actions  of  your  hands, 

I  deem  it  just,  once  more  to  warn  you  all 

Against  the  bitter  fruit,  which  ?/iust  spring  forth 

From  your  defiance  to  authority. 

Johnston. 
Waste  not  the  efforts  of  thy  eloquence  ; 
Ours  is  the  best  authority  of  all  : 
The  vindication  of  our  sacred  rights. 

Bradburn. 
[  JVith  a  sneer. ^ 
I  never  heard  of  that  authority. 

Johnston. 
[As  he  puts  down  the  pen^  wherewith  he  has  signed  the 

articles^  in  which  proceeding  he  is  folloiued  by  Jack 

a7id  Zavala :] 
The  die  is  cast  !  't  is  Liberty  or  Death  ! 

Bradburn. 
AH  matters  settled  now,  we  leave  the  fort ; 
So  fare  ye  well,  till  here  we  meet  again. 


52  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Johnston. 
Nought  is  impossible  with  God.     Farewell. 

\Bradburn  and  his  Mexicans  leave  the  room^ 

Travis. 
This  fort  has  fallen.     But  what  about  the  others  ? 

Johnston. 
An  hour  ago  we  have  received  the  news 
From  Nacogdoches,  that  the  patriots 
Have  driven  the  Mexicans  from  fort  and  town. 

Travis. 
Indeed  ?     Then  why  not  start  to  take  Velasco  ? 

Johnston. 
Brave  Austin  may  have  ta'en  it  by  this  time. 

Messenger. 

\Eittering  with  other  Texans^ 
Hail,  countrymen  !  I  bring  you  happy  news! 
Velasco  has  surrendered  !     Captain  Austin 
Has  sent  me  to  convey  to  you  these  tidings. 

All  present. 
Cheer,  cheer  ! 

Johnston. 
So  bear  with  thee  to  thy  commander 
As  joyous  a  report  as  thou  hast  brought, 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  53 

That  Nacogdoches  and  our  Anahuac 
Are  likewise  in  the  patriots'  hands. 

Messenger. 

I  will. 

Zavala. 
As  sunny  rays  the  snows  of  April  melt, 
So  quickly  has  our  tyrants'  might  succumbed 
Before  our  first  spontaneous  enterprise. 
When  thus  so  strikingly  the  hollowness 
Of  their  pretended  magnitude  is  proven, 
And  while  they  left  us  without  law  and  rule, 
Why  not  declare  us  here  immediately 
Free  and  absolved  from  every  fealty. 
Now  and  forever,  to  a  Mother-State, 
Which,  ever  deaf  to  our  most  just  complaints, 
Will  find  in  our  revolt  sufficient  cause 
For  still  severer  measures  of  oppression  ? 

Travis. 
My  friend,  forgive  me,  if  I  must  declare 
Thy  well-meant  counsel  out  of  time  and  place  ! 
Thou  once  hast  told  me,  that  through  us  thou  first 
Hast  learned  to  loathe  the  bane  of  tyranny 
And  to  concede  to  every  man  his  birth-right 
Of  Liberty  and  Justice.     Hence  reject 
Another  lesson  not,  which  unaware 
We  have  imbibed  e'en  through  our  mother's  milk, 


54  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

And  which  our  native  country's  mighty  breath 

Since  then  has  fanned  into  a  conscious  truth. 

Self -government — the  capability 

To  rule  as  well  as  to  be  ruled, — that  is 

The  only  true  and  safe  palladium 

That  guarantees  a  stable  permanence 

Of  peace  and  freedom  and  prosperity. 

Self-government — that  is  the  corner-stone 

On  which  alone  a  State  can  safely  rest, 

From  which  it  draws,  as  from  a  root  of  life. 

Strength  to  withstand  misfortunes,  storms  and  wars. 

Self-gove7'7iment — that  is  the  magic  wand 

Through  which  each  one's  peculiar  gifts  and  powers 

Are  instantly  aroused  and  reared  and  turned 

Into  a  boon  and  benefit  for  all. 

Self-government — that  is  the  fount  of  youth 

Through  which  each  day  a  land  is  born  anew, 

And  shielded  'gainst  the  stagnant  influence 

Of  ruling  classes  and  monojooly. — 

Hence  when  this  new-awakened  strife  of  passion 

Gives  way  before  our  reason's  calmer  sway. 

Let  us  select  from  every  town  and  borough 

Such  men  as  most  deserve  our  confidence, 

To  meet  in  council,  to  review  our  wants, 

And  to  propose  their  well-considered  plans 

For  our  acceptance  or  rejection.     So 

We  shall  avoid  the  cliffs  of  anarchy. 

And  safely  reach  the  haven  of  ordered  state. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  55 

Jack. 
That,  Travis,  is  the  just  and  only  way. 

Johnston. 

No  doubt  it  is  !  yet  while  the  radiant  fire 

Of  patriotism  casts  heavenward  its  flame, 

We  ought  to  foster  it  and  have  a  care, 

That  everyday-life's  little  interests 

Not  quench  the  once-awakened  stir  of  hearts. 

This  to  achieve,  what  agent  is  so  strong, 

So  universal  as  the  power  of  Song  ? 

Like  as  a  lusty  eagle,  bold  and  fierce, 

By  it  the  soul  will  soar  to  heavenly  spheres, 

Like  as  a  tempest,  so  this  God-sent  dower 

Will  swell  our  hearts  with  all-resistless  power. 

Hence,  countrymen,  intune  with  deep-felt  glee 

The  stirring  *'  Hymn  of  Texan  Liberty," 

And  bear  it  home  and  spread  it  through  the  lands, 

Where'er  a  homestead  lies,  a  cottage  stands, 

And  where  you  be,  together  or  alone. 

Let  rise  your  hearts  on  fts  inspiring  tone. 

Rise,  freemen,  rise  !  your  watchword  be  : 

"  For  Texas  and  her  Liberty  !" 

{^During  the  whole  progress  of  this  scene  fnore  and  more 

Texan  Volunteers  have  quietly  entered  the  roo7n,  which 

is  710W  filled  with  the?n  to  its  utmost  capacity,     Risi?ig 

from  benches  on  which  they  have  taken  their  seats^  t/iey 

now  intune^ 


56  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 


THE  HYMN  OF  TEXAN  LIBERTY  * 


Rise,  valiant  yeomen,  one  and  all, 

And  take  your  swords  in  hand; 
For  hear  you  not  the  thrilling  call 

Of  Freedom  through  the  land  ? 
So  let  her  not  appeal  in  vain. 
But  raise  for  her  a  holy  fane  : 

Rise,  freemen,  rise  !  your  watchword  be  ; 

"  For  Texas  and  her  Liberty  !  ^' 

2. 

Leave  wife  and  child,  drop  tool  and  plow, 
Your  home,  your  work  forsake  ! 

A  higher  prize  of  yours  is  now 
In  danger  and  at  stake  : 

Your  faith,  your  honor  and  your  right 

Are  threatened  by  the  tyrant's  might ; 
Rise,  freemen,  rise  !  your  watchword  be  : 
"  For  Texas  and  her  Liberty  !  '* 

3- 

No  earthly  treasure  is  too  high, 

Too  great  no  sacrifice, 
E'en  though  it  were  to  bleed  and  die 

For  Freedom's  lofty  prize  ; 

♦  For  the  tune  of  this  Hymn  see  page  241. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  57 

Happy,  if  gains  your  sword  and  toil 
For  you  a  grave  in  Freedom's  soil : 

Rise,  freemen,  rise  !  your  watchword  be  : 

*'  For  Texas  and  her  Liberty  !  " 

4. 
And  if  the  tyrant  loudly  boasts 

Of  greater  might  than  ours  : 
Our  Ally  is  the  Lord  of  Hosts, 

With  all  His  gifts  and  powers  ; 
He  aids  us,  for  our  cause  is  fair  ; 
Who  will  then  tremble  and  despair  ? 

Rise,  freemen,  rise  !  your  watchword  be  : 

*'  For  Texas  and  her  Liberty  !  " 
[Curtain.] 

ACT   SECOND. 

Scene  L 

A  road  leading  through  a  forest,  with  the  Alamo  in  the 
back-ground.  Win.  Travis  accompanying  Edward 
Burleson  and  Frank  W,  Johnston^  who  appear 
equipped  for  a  journey.  ^ 

Travis. 

The  spot  is  reached  where  we  must  part,  my  friends, 
You  to  go  eastward, — I  to  wend  my  steps 


58  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Back  to  the  Alamo,  with  whose  defence 

The  same  command  which  ordered  your  recall 

Has  trusted  me,  at  best  a  doubtful  honor. 

Happy  the  soldier,  whom  his  narrow  way 

Of  duty  leads  securely  on  his  path; 

His  order  is  his  never-failing  compass, 

Its  execution  his  delight  and  praise. 

Such,  by  no  means,  is  the  commander's  lot. 

Whose  pleasure-cup  is  bittered  by  the  worm-wood 

Of  Care  and  grave  Responsibility, 

Who  oft,  when  human  wisdom  fails  his  mind. 

With  shuddering  hand  must  draw  a  doubtful  chance 

From  out  the  urn  of  fate,  which  mercilessly 

Decides  on  this  his  merit  and  his  fame. 

But  then,  as  meet  it  is,  a  soldier's  wish 

Succumbs  before  the  voice  of  discipline. 

Burleson. 

'Tis  strange  how  oft,  what  seems  to  one  a  burden 

His  neighbor  covets  as  his  greatest  boon. 

'Tis  so  the  case  with  us  ;  for  nothing  more 

I  should  desire  to  crown  my  life's  exploits 

Than  to  defend  the  self-same  Alamo 

Which  but  two  months  agp  the  volunteers 

In  my  command  so  gallantly  have  won. 

Like  as  a  precious  gift  I  cherished  it, 

Such  as  we  fain  repeatedly  defend 

To  show,  how  much  we  value  its  possession. 


THE  FALL  OF  TLLE  ALAMO.  59 

The  only  comfort  then,  when  we  must  leave 
So  dear  a  property  behind,  is  this  : 
To  know  its  keeping  trusted  to  a  hand 
That  is  as  brave,  as  ours  designed  to  be. 

Travis. 
Thanks  for  the  honor  of  thy  compliment, 
Although  my  diffidence  deserves  it  not, 
However  much  it  may  be  justified. 
I  beg  thee  to  remember,  that  of  all 
The  nineteen-hundred,  then  in  thy  command, 
No  more  than  hundred  fifty  yet  remain 
To  garrison  the  fort's  extended  walls. 
Consider,  too,  that  Santa  Anna  leads 
His  army's  flower,  near  thirteen-thousand  strong, 
With  guns  and  siege-train  'gainst  our  time-worn  ram- 
parts. 
Pray,  misinterpret  not  my  doubts  as  fear ; 
For  e'en  if  victory  is  out  of  question 
Save — if  you  will — the  victory  of  a  brave 
Yet  fruitless  opposition, — still  the  wish 
Is  fair,  I  think,  that  my  defence,  my  death 
Prove  not  quite  useless  for  the  weal  of  Texas. 

Johnston. 
So  let  us  hasten,  Burleson,  to  reach 
Sam  Houston  on  the  Colorado's  banks. 
And  there  arrived,  not  to  relent  in  prayers 
Till  he  has  sent  the  Alamo  relief. 


6o  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Against  its  stone-walls  as  against  a  rock 

The  en'my  must  exhaust  his  wrathful  power, 

If  not,  his  hosts  will  overflow  the  land. 

So  fare  thee  well,  friend  Travis,  till  thou  hear'st 

Our  trumpet's  peal  to  herald  thy  release. 

Burleson. 
The  eyes  and  hopes  of  Texas  rest  on  thee, 
Be  thou  the  bulwark  of  her  Liberty  ! 

Travis. 
I  will,  I  will  ! — so  to  our  friends  report  : 
That  Travis  is  resolved  to  hold  the  fort 
Until  his  end,  and  that  from  its  debris 
Shall  rise  the  phoenix  of  her  liberty  ! 

\Exeunt  Burleson  and  Johnstoji.^ 

Scene  II. 
[Biopsis.] 
Travis  alone. 
I. 
Farewell,  for  ever  !  for  I  feel  it,  soon 
I  must  bid  even  life  a  last  farewell ! 
So  let  me,  friendly  Nature,  then  commune 

Once  more  with  thee,  ere  sounds  my  funeral  knell, 
And  strengthen  me  with  every  comfort's  boon. 

With  all  the  blessed  gifts,  that  in  thee  dwell, 
To  cheer  my  heart  and  courage  for  the  task 
Which  honor,  freedom,  country  from  me  ask. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  6l 

2. 

Thou  who  hast  nursed  me  in  my  mother's  womb, 
Whose  arms  have  borne  me  into  life  and  light, 

Whose  genial  warmth  has  swelled  my  childhood's  bloom. 
Whose   teachings    made    the    school-boy's    rambles 
bright,— 

Spare  not  thy  balm,  when  standing  at  my  tomb 
I  more  than  ever  need  thy  counsel's  might. — 

Have  thanks,  e'en  now  thou  hast  fulfilled  my  prayer 

In  yon  cocoon,  suspended  in  the  air. 

\He   takes   a    caterpillar  s   web   from    an   overhanging 
branch.^ 

3- 

Thou  chrysalis  !  how  well  thou  showest  me 

Kind  Nature's  beneficial  ordinance, 
That  saves  her  children  from  the  agony 

Of  transitory  progress  by  the  trance 
Of  sleep  and  death,  whose  torpid  mystery 

Begets  in  them  new  powers  for  their  advance, — 
Thou  only  slumber'st  to  await  the  change 
That  will  extol  thee  to  a  higher  range  ! 

Of  loathsome  mien,  of  uncouth  form  till  late, 

Thou  shalt  be  draped  in  raiments  proud  and  rare, 

When  summer-heats  unlock  thy  prison-gate 
And  send  thee  forth  as  ''  blossom  of  the  air," 


62 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO, 


Whose  thirst  the  flowers'  sweet  petals  satiate, 

While  leaves  and  stalks  formed  hitherto  thy  fare. 
Perfected  so  in  shape,  in  hue,  in  wants. 
Live  on  thy  circled  life  mid  earthly  haunts. 


And  I  ? — Like  thee  /  have  a  web  to  spin, 
A  tegument  for  my  immortal  soul : 

The  finer,  purer  threads  I  weave  therein, 
The  sooner  I  shall  reach  my  destined  goal. 

For  when  the  rays  of  heavenly  suns  begin 
To  pour  their  light  on  me  from  ^rial  pole, 

My  spirit,  like  thy  butterfly,  shall  soar 

Its  lofty,  radiant  flight  for  evermore. 


Hence  hope  and  strive  and  falter  not,  my  heart ! 

Thou  shalt  exist  for  all  eternity  ! 
Diffused,  enlarged,  thou  shalt  become  a  part 

Of  other  beings,  yet  to  rise  and  be  ! 
How  far,  how  widely,  rests  with  thee  ;  thou  art 

The  own  creator  of  thy  destiny  : 
Therefore  aim  well,  aim  high  for  genuine  truth  : 
It  holds  thy  fount  of  everlasting  youth. 

\He  sits  down  on  a  grassy  knolly  and  becomes  lost  in  deep 
reverie?^ 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  ^l 

Scene  IIL 

The  voice  of  a  many  coming  through  the  woods ^  is  over^ 

heard  sifiging  the  following  song.* 


Born  in  the  wilds  of  Tennessee, 

With  Indians  round  about, 
This  child  was  reared  and  grew  to  be 

A  daring  hunter-scout. 
I  fought  the  brinded  catamount, 
And  dragged  the  panther  from  his  haunt, 
And  grappled  with  the  lynx  and  bear, 
And  scaled  the  eagle's  cliff-built  lair  ; 
And  so  it  came,  that  with  my  name 
Was  blent  a  daring  Hunter  s  fame. 

2. 

And  when  about  the  neighborhood 

The  Creeks  spread  death  and  fear, 
I  shouldered  for  my  country's  good 

My  gun  as  volunteer. 
I  served  Old  Jackson  as  a  guide, 
Fought  many  battles  at  his  side, 
And  often  saved  by  timely  aid 
My  comrades  from  an  ambuscade; 
And  so  it  came,  that  with  my  name 
Was  blent  a  gallant  Soldier's  fame. 

*  For  the  tune  of  this  song,  see  page  242. 


64  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO, 

3- 

The  war  at  end,  I  homeward  tacked, 

To  settle  down  in  ease, 
But  no  !  my  friends  chose  me  to  act 

As  Justice  of  the  Peace. 
I  could  not  write  ;  hence  good  and  brief 
My  warrants  sounded  :  "  Catch  the  thief  !  " 
But  never  once  I  favored  wrong, 
Or  crushed  the  poor,  or  fawned  the  strong. 
And  so  it  came,  that  with  my  name 
Was  blent  an  upright  Judge's  fame. 

4. 
For  Congress  then  a  nominee 

I  took  the  stump  and  ran, 
And  was  elected  handsomely 

O'er  every  other  man. 
In  Congress  then  at  Washington 
I  sat  as  silent  as  a  nun ; 
Yet  though  I  spake  but  "  Aye  "  and  "  Nay," 
My  vote  was  honest  any  way. 
And  so  I  gained  a  world-wide  fame. 
As  Congressman  without  a  blame. 

5. 
Now  after  a  ten  months'  sojourn 

'Mong  my  Comanche  friends, 
I  have  resolved  my  steps  to  turn 

Where  my  life's  journey  ends. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  65 

My  brethren  in  the  Alamo 
I  come  to  join  against  the  foe  ; 
They  will  succumb  before  his  might, 
Yet  it  will  be  a  glorious  fight ; 
So  will  forever  with  my  name 
Be  blent  a  Martyr  s  noble  fame. 
\Travis^  having  listened  hitherto  with  great  surprise  ^  now 
rises.^ 

Travis. 
One  only  being  in  the  universe 
That  man  can  be,  and  that  is — David  Crockett. 

Crockett. 
[Z>ressed  in  buck-skin  clothes  and  wearing  a  fox-skin  cap, 

now  steps  from  the  bushes  with  Betsy,  his  rifle,  in  his 

hand.^ 
Who  called  my  name  ? 

Travis. 

I  did— I,  William  Travis, 
Commander  of  the  Alamo,  who  hail 
Thy  unexpected  coming  here  with  joy, 
Since  nought  could  add  more  strength  to  our  defence, 
Or  cheer  my  men  with  more  enthusiasm. 

Crockett. 
[  Ceremoniously^ 
I  thank  thee  kindly  for  thy  eulogy, 
As  we  in  Congress  used  to  style  such  praise. 


66  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

But  speak  !  why  lingerest  thou  here  in  the  woods 
Like  as  a  simpler,  seeking  healing  herbs, 
Or  like  a  poet,  scanning  Nature's  secrets, 
While  even  now  the  foe  is  close  at  hand, 
And  hopes  to  take  thy  forteress  by  surprise. 

Travis. 
\Eagerly?[ 
What  sayest  thou  ?     It  cannot  be — my  scouts — 

Crockett. 
Have  all  been  captured  by  the  fleet  dragoons 
Of  Santa  Anna,  who  from  different  points 
Spread  out  the  network  of  his  cavalry 
That  compassed  them,  ere  yet  they  were  aware. 

Travis. 
But  pray  how  happen'st  thou  to  know  this  news  ? 

Crockett. 
Through  my  Comanche  friends  who,  vulture-like, 
Hang  round  the  skirts  of  Santa  Anna's  van. 

Travis. 
If  I  before  have  welcomed  thy  arrival 
As  useful,  as  a  blessing  to  our  cause, 
I  now  behold  in  it  the  wondrous  hand 
Of  Providence,  dispatching  thee  to  warn  us 
Against  approaching  danger.     But,  friend  Crockett, 
Let  now  us  haste,  where  duty  calls  our  steps. 

\Exeunt^ 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO,  6/ 


Scene  IV. 

Santa  Anna's  tent  in  the  Mexican  Camp  before  the  Alamo. 
Santa  Anna  seated  in  an  arm-chair^  ivhile  before  him 
stand  the  Generals  Cos  a?id  Castrillon  and  the  Col- 
onels Bradburn,  Duque  and  Almonte. 

Santa  Anna. 

\Rising^ 

The  auspices  of  fate,  my  Generals, 

Were  not  propitious  to  our  first  exploit 

On  Texan  soil,  still  I  regret  it  not. 

In  every  enterprise  I  have  been  wont 

To  sacrifice  a  share  of  mine  to  Fate 

By  reckless  venture  and  impetuous  force  ; 

And  I  have  found  my  work  to  turn  out  well, 

As  oft  as  Fate  received  my  offering. 

Why  it  is  so,  I  self  can  hardly  tell; 

Maybe,  that,  flattered  b.y  my  reverence, 

(Akin  to  that  of  Grecian  banquet-hosts 

Who  to  the  gods  poured  out  their  goblet's  prime). 

The  fatal  god  grows  reconciled  to  me  ; 

Maybe,  that  like  a  savage  animal 

He  feeds  upon  the  booty  thrown  to  him, 

While  free  from  his  restraint  and  fickleness 

Man's  innate  talent  can  work  out  its  way — • 

Enough,  to-day's  discomfiture  proclaims 


6S  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Our  undertaking's  ultimate  success, 

To  which,  besides,  our  soldiers'  discipline, 

Our  leaders'  bravery  and  experience, 

Withal  our  might  and  numbers  clearly  point. 

But  albeit  my  detention  hindered  me 

To  be  a  witness  to  this  morning's  fight, 

So  render  me,  Castrillon,  thy  report. 

Castrillon. 

According  to  Your  Excellency's  command 

I  was  to  storm  the  Alamo,  so  soon 

I  had  arrived  here  with  the  army's  van 

Of  thirteen  hundred  men.     In  steadfast  march, 

Though  flew  the  bullets  thick  and  fast,  we  reached 

The  ramparts  of  the  forteress,  which  we  scaled. 

In  vain.     No  sooner  had  the  crest  been  gained, 

When  madly,  like  a  wounded  grizzly  bear. 

The  garrison  flung  headlong  down  our  ranks 

And  boldly  opening  then  the  gates,  rushed  forth, 

— Travis  their  leader — on  our  wavering  men. 

They  fled  and  stopped  not  in  their  maddened  run, 

Till  they  had  reached  the  refuge  of  our  camp. 

One  single  captive,  whom,  attacking  me, 

I  with  my  sabre  cut  across  his  brow, 

Is  all  the  trophy  which  we  have  obtained. 

While  of  my  thirteen  hundred  men 

More  than  one-fourth  are  either  killed  or  wounded. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  69 

Santa  Anna. 
So  bring,  Castrillon,  then  thy  captive  here, 
That  we  may  question  him  about  the  fort. 

\^Exit  Castrillon.^ 
Meanwhile  receive  my  will  for  this  campaign. 
Ween  not,  that  when  we  have  subdued  and  crushed 
This  base  revolt,  our  task  were  then  complete. 
A  fool  combats  the  evil's  gorgon-head, 
A  prudent  man  destr6ys  the  evil's  root 
This  territory  must  become  the  bulwark 
Of  Mexico  against  the  threatening  tide 
Of  immigrants  from  Anglo-Saxon  stock, 
Which  thoughtlessly  has  been  allowed  to  roll 
Its  waves  of  heresy  and  rationalism, 
Of  lawlessness  and  bold  irreverence, 
Against  these  ill-defended  Texan  shores. 
The  time  has  come,  when  loudly  to  announce, 
That  never  on  the  self-same  continent 
The  Anglo-Saxon  and  the  Latin  races 
Can  live  in  peace  and  harmony  together. 
For  as  the  Roman  loathed  the  crafty  race 
Of  Carthage,  and  relented  not  in  war. 
Till  every  stone  of  her  antagonist 
Was  powdered  dust,  so  parts  a  yawning  gulf 
Of  bitter  jealousy  and  hate  intense 
These  modern  nationalities.     Behold 
The  Anglo-Saxons  !    Without  rest  and  peace 
They  roam  and  spread  and  plot  and  seek  and  grasp, 


70  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

An  easy  prey  to  every  fancy's  gust, 

To  innovations  and  Utopian  schemes. 

'Tis  true  they  fill  and  colonize  the  earth, 

And  lay  it  out  in  states  and  commonwealths. 

But  all  of  these  are  frail  and  hollow  shells, 

Whom  like  a  cardboard-house  the  slightest  breath 

May  disarrange  or  wholly  overturn. 

Not  so  the  Latin  race  !  although  it  lacks 

The  other's  fitful  elasticity — 

Their  stern  solidity  of  government. 

Their  healthful  stableness  of  disciphne, 

Their  innate  reverence  to  authority. 

Are  better  safe-guards  for  their  future  greatness. 

Therefore  our  peaceful  progress  to  insure, 

I  am  resolved  to  put  the  best  barrier 

Of  all,  a  desert  waste  round  Mexico, 

A  zone  of  safety,  broad  four  hundred  miles. 

With  not  one  human  being  save  the  Indian. 

To  this  effect,  let  every  town  and  village 

And  farm-house  be  destroyed,  as  you  pass  by  ; 

Let  every  Mexican  we  meet  be  sent 

Where  he  belongs,  across  the  Rio  Grande  ; 

But  foreigners  be  warned  on  pain  of  death 

Immediately  to  leave  this  territory. 

When  not  a  soul  is  left  then  in  this  land 

Save  Indians  and  our  garrisons  perchance, 

The  ancient  Spanish  law,  that  once  forbade 

A  stranger's  foot  to  trespass  on  this  land. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  7 1 

Will  be  renewed  and  rigidly  enforced. 

This  is  my  plan,  long  nursed  and  now  matured; 

It  is  for  you  to  act  accordingly. 

Scene  V. 

Enters  Castrillon,  leading  James  Travis^  who  looks  pale 
and  exhausted^  and  whose  head  is  bandaged, 

Santa  Anna. 
Is  that  thy  captive,  say  ?     A  beardless  boy  ? 
That  is  indeed  quite  ludicrous.     I  fain 
Would  know  if  all  insurgents  are  mere  boys. 

J.  Travis. 
What  if  they  were  ?     They  made  your  bearded  men 
Retreat  this  morn  in  quite  a  lively  style. 

Cos. 
Boy,  knowest  thou  before  whom  thou  standest  here  ? 

J.  Travis. 
I  never  saw  his  face,  still  every  trait 
His  blood-shot  eye,  his  lips  so  firmly  set, 
His  savage  grin,  his  hollow  cheeks, — they  all 
Proclaim  to  me  :  I  stand  before  ^'  The  Butcher." 

Santa  Anna. 
Here,  gentlemen,  you  can  behold  anew 
The  fruit  of  Anglo-Saxon  discipline: 
Gross  impudence  and  wanton  disrespect. 


72  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO, 

J.  Travis. 

We  Anglo-Saxons  give  our  free  esteem 
To  honest  men,  however  poor  and  low  ; 
But  such  as  thee  we  hate  and  loathe  the  more, 
The  greater  might  they  have  to  do  us  harm. 

Santa  Anna. 

Enough  I  have  already  heard  and  borne 
Of  thy  bravado.     Tell  us  now  thy  name. 

J.  Travis. 

James  Travis  I  am  called. 

Santa  Anna. 

James  Travis  ?  what  ? 
Art  thou  related  to  that  demagogue 
Who,  Colonel  now,  commands  the  Alamo  ? 

J.  Travis. 
My  highest  boast  is  that  I  am  his  brother, 
Yea,  brother  to  the  best,  the  bravest  man 
That  ever  breathed  the  air.     No  human  heart 
Beats  so  for  all  that  noble  is  and  good. 

Santa  Anna. 
Thou  art  his  brother,  hem  !  that  pleases  me. 
Yea,  pleases  me  more  than  a  thousand  captives. 

\Ahruptly^ 
How  many  men  defend  the  Alamo  ? 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  73 

J.  Travis. 
How  many  men  ?     Is  that  thy  wish  to  know  ? 

Santa  Anna. 
Yes,  yes  !  no  matter  'bout  a  man  or  two. 

J.  Travis. 

If  thou  wouldst  know  their  actual  count,  then  go, 
When  have  thy  minions  stormed  the  forteress 
And  count  the  corpses  lyinij  there  within, — 
Their  number  will  reveal  to  thee  how  strong 
The  garrison  was  of  the  Alamo. 

Santa  Anna. 

[Grinding  his  teeth^ 
My  boy  !  thou  art  still  young  and  ignorant, 
And  ne'er  perhaps  hast  heard  of  certain  means 
That  force  the  strongest  man  to  ope  his  lips. 
And  break  the  stoutest  bosom's  stubbornness. 
There  is  the  lash  that  stripes  thy  tender  back 
With  grooves  of  bloody  gore  ;  there  is  the  rack 
That  sends  a  shock  of  pain  through  every  limb  ; 
There  is  the  iron  virgin  that  inflicts 
Her  spiked  embrace  into  thy  quivering  flesh ; 
There  are  the  red-hot  tongs,  and  many  more 
I  care  not  to  describe.     All  these  await 
Thy  youthful  form,  if  thou  refuse  to  answer. 
Once  more  :  how  many  hold  the  Alamo  ? 


74  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO, 

J.  Travis. 
Once  more,  to  learn  that  thou  must  conquer  it. 

Santa  Anna. 
Enough;  lead  him  away  and  try  the  lash 
Full  twenty  times  on  him  to  test  his  strength. 

J.  Travis. 
That,  tyrant,  thou  canst  test  immediately. 

\IIe  leaps  with  the  fierceness  of  a  tiger  at  Sa?ita  Anna^ 
whose  throat  he  seizes  with  both  hands ^ 

Santa  Anna. 

\Gasping  for  breath ?[ 
Tear  him  away  from  me  ;  he  strangles  me. 
[  The  officers  pull  Travis  away,  and  form  a  line  between 
him  and  Santa  Anjia,  who  has  fallen  into  his  arm- 
chair from  exhaustion.^ 

J.  Travis. 

[Rising  to  his  full  height.^ 
Behold  !  as  has  a  feeble  youngster's  hand 
Laid  weak  and  low  that  mighty  tyrant  lord. 
So  lightly  shall  our  patriots'  little  band 
O'ercome  his  hosts  and  break  his  yoke  abhorred. 

Cos. 

[Addressing  Santa  Anna  A 
Speak  but  the  word  and  we  cut  him  to  pieces. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  75 

Santa  Anna. 

\Recovering^ 
No,  no  !  he  must  be  spared  for  better  ends. 

James  Travis. 
For  better  ends  !     Ha  !  I  devine  thy  plan 
To  use  me  as  a  scare-crow  Against  my  brotlier, 
Whom  so  thou  ween'st  to  force  into  surrender 
By  threats  of  torturing  me  !     Is  that  thy  scheme  ? 
Well,  despot,  list !     Although  thy  base  design 
W^ould  wreck  against  my  brother's  fortitude 
And  hardly  need  a  sacrifice  from  me, 
Not  even  I  will  gratify  thy  wish  ! 
See  now,  how  come  "  thy  better  ends  "  to  end  ! 

\He  tears  the  bandages  from  his  wounds^ 
Stream  forth,  my  blood  !  if  here  or  in  the  fight, 
What  matters  it  ?     To  Liberty  and  Right 
Thine  every  drop  was  vowed;  e'en  here  thou  flow'st 
In  their  behalf!     Where,  tyrant,  is  thy  boast? 

\He  falls  into  Castrillon^s  arms.^ 

Santa  Anna. 

[J^ising.^ 
Quick  !  get  a  surgeon,  Duque,  and  thou,  Almonte, 
Assist  Castrillon  to  remove  the  youth, 

[  IVhen  Bradburii  takes  a  hand  in  the  removal?^ 
— Bradburn,  thou  wilt  remain  a  while  with  me, — 

[^Continuing  to  address  the  others^ 


76  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

And  see  to  it,  that  this  most  precious  hostage 
Of  Fortune  is  not  lost  to  us.     Away  ! 
[Castrillon,  Dtique  and  Almonte  bring  J.  Travis  away.] 

Scene  VI. 
San  fa  Amza,  Cos  and  Bradburn  remain, 
Santa  Anna. 
I  have  retained  thee,  Colonel  Bradburn,  here 
To  trust  thee  with  a  charge,  I  hide  it  not. 
As  delicate,  as  difficult,  but  as: 
"The  greatest  task  becomes  the  greatest  mind," 
This  mission,  well  performed  by  thee,  will  add 
Another  palm  of  merit  to  the  many 
Which  Mexico  has  entered  to  thy  credit 
Upon  the  ledger  of  her  gratitude. 

Cos. 

\^Aside^ 
The  ledger,  yes  !  but  not  the  cash  account. 

Santa  Anna. 
It  is  my  wish,  that  under  flag  of  truce 
Thou  instantly  start  for  the  Alamo, 
And  there  arrived,  demand  the  fort's  surrender 
With  all  its  men  and  arms.     But  am  I  right  ? 
The  task  appears  not  pleasant  quite  to  thee. 

Bradburn. 
Make  me  the  leader  of  the  Forlorn  Hope, 


THE  FA  LI   OF  THE  ALAMO.  // 

Place  me  where  fiercest  raves  the  battle's  roar, 
But  bid  me  not  in  parley  to  confront 
Those  men,  whose  every  eye-glance,  every  word 
Mean  scorn  and  sneers  cast  on  my  loyalty. 

Santa  Anna. 

Is  that  thy  whole  objection?     Why, meseems, 
Thy  own  confession  puts  thee  in  the  wrong. 

Bradburn. 

No,  no.  Your  Excellency  !  't  is  only  hard 

To  reap  contempt,  where  praise  should  be  our  harvest. 

Santa  Anna. 

A  wrongful  charge  is  like  an  arrow's  shaft 
That  lacks  the  head  ;  it  cannot  harm  or  wound. 
Hence,  if  nought  else  thou  keepest  back  from  me, 
I  see  no  reason,  why  not  overrule 
Thy  weak  remonstrance  and  insist  upon 
What  was  my  first  and  well-considered  plan. 
Therefore  list  well  to  my  instructions  now. 
Which  thou  must  neither  change  nor  overstep. 
First  thou  wilt,  in  the  name  of  Mexico, 
Demand  an  unconditional  surrender. 
When  that  has  been  rejected,  offer  next 
Imprisonment  until  the  end  of  war 
To  all  save  the  commander,  William  Travis, 
.  To  whom  as  fair  inducement  of  surrender 
Thou  wilt  hold  out  my  fine  estate,  La  Paz, 


78  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Which  shall  be  his,  beside  a  cash  endowment. 
And  as  they  tell  me  that  he  loves  thy  daughter, 
And  she  returns  his  love,  I  have  no  doubt 
Thou  wilt  award  thy  fatherly  consent 
To  the  fulfilment  of  thy  daughter's  wish, 
Thus  heightening  self  my  offer's  gracious  terms. 

Bradburn. 
'Tis  not  the  choice  that  meets  with  my  approval, 
Yet  my  antipathy  shall  not  debar 
The  welfare  of  the  State,  when  for  its  good 
This  marriage  is  essentially  required. 

Santa  Anna. 
I  knew  too  well  thy  patriotism,  or  else 
Should  have  been  loath  to  forestall  thy  decision, 
Yet  should  thy  offer  even  not  avail 
Against  the  rebel's  pride,  there  still  remains 
His  brother's  fate  as  means  of  thy  persuasion; 
This  card,  reserved  till  last  and  well  applied. 
Must  make  thy  mission  a  complete  success. 
So  hasten  to  prepare  thee  for  thy  way, 
And  when  returned,  report  immediately 
Thy  errand's  and  thy  skill's  result  to  me. 

\Exit  Bradburn?[ 
Cos. 
Can  it  be  thy  intention, — speak  ! — to  grant 
Such  terms  of  favor  to  a  rebel-hord 
Who  took  from  us,  through  stealth  and  stratagem, 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  /Q 

The  self-same  forteress,  which  to  repossess 

Costs  us  e'en  now  the  lives  of  several  hundred  ? 

And  wouldst  thou  feed  these  rogues  for  months  and 

years, 
At  the  expense  of  our  exhausted  chest  ? 
And  most  of  all  reward  that  traitor  Travis 
With  wealth  and  grace  instead  of  the  garotte  ? 

Santa  Anna. 
[Folding  his  handsy  and  devoutly  casting  his  eyes  up  to 

heaven^ 
Such  is  my  plan  !  if  then  my  countrymen, 
Justly  embittered  over  the  insurgents, 
Refuse  to  ratify  its  stipulations, 
And  slay  the  men,  with  whom  they  made  no  treaty, 
Thus  kindly  saving  me  a  fine  estate. 
And  our  Republic  quite  a  large  expense, 
I  must  regret  it,  though  I  cannot  change  it. 

Cos. 

I  understand  !  but,  riddle  of  a  man  ! 

Why  hast  thou  chosen  that  American 

For  messenger,  who  seems  to  me  of  all 

Least  suited,  least  trustworthy  for  the  charge  ? 

Santa  Anna. 
Least  suited,  why  ?     His  readiness  of  speech. 
His  nationality,  his  daughter's  love 
For  Travis,  and  his  diplomatic  skill 


8o  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Seemed  reasons  strong  enough  for  choosing  him. 
And  faithless?     Ah  !  it  needs  a  strong  suspicion 
To  overthrow  the  record  of  his  service. 

Cos. 
I  fain  bestow  on  him  my  confidence 
In  every  war  and  emprise  save  the  contest 
Against  his  former  countrymen  and  friends. 
Elsewhere  so  gallant, — here  he  is  a  coward  ; 
Elsewhere  so  active, — here  he  lacks  in  zeal. 
Hast  thou  forgot,  that  'gainst  his  reputation 
Still  lurks  the  old  suspicion,  treacherously 
To  have  surrendered  Anahuac's  Fort 
Three  years  ago,  without  one  single  shot  ? 
And  even  now  he  seems  upon  his  mind 
To  have  some  plan,  that  scents  of  mystery; 
For  as  a  friend  from  Vera  Cruz  informs  me, 
He  has  transferred  his  bank-account  abroad. 

Santa  Anna. 
\Eagerly^ 
He  has  1  since  when .? 

Cos. 

The  day  of  our  departure. 
But  why  so  pensive  now  } 

Santa  Anna. 

I  must  confess 
That  Bradburn's  act,  though  little  in  itself, 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  8 1 

Somewhat  annoys  me,  since  it  indicates 

His  bold  design  to  free  him  from  his  web 

Wherein  I  saw  and  helped  him  evermore 

To  grow  entangled.     An  American, 

He  entered  our  service, — a  mistake 

Which  oft,  no  doubt,  has  brought  him  into  conflict 

With  all  his  innate  feelings.     Weak  enough 

To  suffer  than  courageously  to  free  him. 

He  first  suggested  to  my  mind  the  thought 

To  try  and  show  what  I  can  do  as  god. 

[  When.  Cos,  by  raising  his  ar?ns  in  deprecation,  expresses 
his  utrnost  horror  at  Santa  Anna's  word,  the  latter 
continues  .•] 

As  spider  then  !  By  missions  like  the  present, 
I  imperceptibly  have  tightened  more  and  more 
My  cobweb's  threads  around  his  every  step. 
Until  my  highest  curiosity 
Is  roused  to  see  and  know  where  he  will  end. 

Cos. 
Beware,  lest  God  ensnare  thee  self  through  him. 

\^Exit  Cos^^ 
Santa  Anna. 
[  Uneasy^ 
This  Bradburn  troubles  me  !  for  if  his  will 
Has  once  rebelled  against  his  fate,  why  not 
This  time,  when  such  a  chance  is  given  to  him  ? 


82  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

The  spark  of  boldness  lightly  grows  a  flame. 
I  should  not  have  employed  that  man  ;  it  may 
Yet  turn  against  me.     Is  it  then  so  true: 
We  thinky  we  rule^  while  we  ourselves  are  ruled  ? 

Scene  VII. 
Enters  Elsie  Bradburn. 
Santa  Anna. 
Miss  Elsie  Bradbum?     Happy  I  must  call 
The  cause  that  led  your  footsteps  to  this  tent, 
For,  ah  !  a  soldier's  rude  and  changeful  life 
Lets  him  too  oft,  too  easily  forget 
Those  milder  feelings,  gentler  traits  of  heart 
Which  woman's  beneficial  influence 
Begets  and  fosters  in  society. 
'Tis  hence,  indeed,  a  blessing,  when  the  spell 
Of  woman's  presence  melts  at  times  the  ice. 
Wherewith  war's  chilly  blast  incrusts  our  hearts. 

Elsie. 
The  flattering  praise  by  which  Your  Excellency 
Deign  to  extol  our  earthly  mission's  purport 
Most  happ'ly  lightens  the  anxiety 
Of  my  request,  whose  worthy  utterance 
Would  otherwise  have  sorely  tried  my  lips. 
I  crave  the  leave  of  nursing  and  attending 
The  youth  on  whom  an  evil  fate  has  laid 
The  double  weight  of  prison  and  disease. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO,  83 

Santa  Anna. 

\Frowninglyi\ 
Two  hundred  of  our  faithful  Mexicans 
Lie  sorely  wounded  in  our  hospitals. 
Why  not,  if  you  incline  to  charity, 
Extend  its  grateful  blessings  first  on  those, 
Who  fought  and  suffered  for  a  righteous  cause, 
Than  on  a  rebel,  whose  defiant  pride 
Captivity  and  wounds  could  not  reform  1 

Elsie. 

That  rebel  is  a  countryman  of  mine, 
Forsaken  here,  exposed  to  cruelty; 
He  is  the  brother  of  the  man  I  love. 
Whose  anxious  fear  too  well  I  can  devine. 
Should  then  these  freely-cherished  motives 
Not  outweigh  every  duty's  stern  regard 
Imposed  upon  me  by  my  father's  choice  ? 

Santa  Anna. 

A  loving  daughter  makes  her  father's  choice 
Her  own  ;  't  is  natural  and — often — useful. 

Elsie. 

And  still,  there  are  impressed  on  every  heart 
Some  holy  laws  which  claim  a  precedence. 

Santa  Anna. 

These  laws  our  wishes  oft  interpret  wrong. 


84  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO, 

Elsie. 

Would  you  not  self  assign  your  chief  devotion 
To  God,  your  second  to  your  native  land  ? 

Santa  Anna. 

That  greatly  will  depend  on  what  you  call 

Your  native  land.     What  is  this  Texas,  speak  ! 

A  dreary  waste,  a  desert  territory 

Of  Mexico  not  worth  the  name  of  State, 

With  outlaws  filled  and  refugees  from  justice, 

The  scum  of  the  depraved  society 

Of  the  United  States.     And  this  you  boast 

Your  native  land,  a  penal  colony  } 

Elsie. 

Ah  !  must  I  hear  Great  Santa  Anna's  lips 
Repeat  the  thoughtless  sentiments  of  men 
Who  prejudiced,  averse  to  deeper  search, 
Judge  inward  Nature  only  from  without? 
I  will  admit  that  many  desperadoes, 
Excreted  elsewhere  through  society 
And  law  from  kind  respect  and  intercourse, 
Have  found  a  welcome  refuge  and  asylum 
In  sparsely-settled  portions  of  our  land, 
On  which  their  crimes  bestow  an  ill  repute. 
But, — while  beneath  the  prairies'  atmosphere, 
So  pure,  so  temple-like,  so  God-pervaded, 
And  'mong  their  dwellers'  patriarchal  spirit 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  85 

Their  bad  example  cannot  prove  contagious, 
But  must  pass  oif  like  vapors  in  the  sun, — 
Still  they  are  useful,  necessary  here. 
Brought  hither  by  the  Great  Economist 
That  rules  this  universe,  they  are  no  less 
Than  all  the  good,  that  here  reside,  His  tools 
Wherewith  He  works  His  deep,  mysterious  plans. 
Here  to  erect  a  grand,  a  noble  State, 
A  monument  to  His  Eternal  Widom, 
He  needs  rough  stones  to  lay  its  firm  foundation. 
And  coarse  cement  wherewith  to  bind  its  seams. 
The  worst  materials  are  the  best  for  this ; 
Without  their  aid  no  State  was  ever  built. 

Santa  Anna. 

These  are  quite  novel  theories  to  me; 
But  pray,  proceed,  Miss  Bradburn,  for  I  long 
To  hear  your  more  than  curious  eulogy 
Of  rogues  and  desperadoes  to  the  end. 

Elsie. 

Virtue  at  rest  is  indolent  and  slow, 
And  needs  a  spur  to  rouse  her  energies  ; 
For  her  regard  for  peace,  her  reverence 
For  law  and  order,  her  dislike  to  strife, 
Cause  often  her  to  bear  what  she  ought  not. 
It  is  the  bad  whose  utter  recklessness. 
Whose  bold  defiance  of  authority, 


86  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

First  turn  the  Ship  of  State  from  out  her  course 

Beneath  the  banner  of  a  patriotism, 

Whose  pure  effusion  they  adulterate 

With  the  admixture  of  their  base  designs. 

Woe,  then,  thrice  woe  then  to  the  ill-starred  vessel 

Whose  helm  the  hand  of  maddened  Passion  grasps, 

Whose  sails  the  breeze  of  Fury  fills,  whose  course 

Lies  on  the  stormy  main  of  Anarchy. 

And  happy  on  the  other  hand  the  ship 

Whose  crew  of  honest,  stalwart  patriots, 

Reared  in  the  school  of  true  self-government 

And  fully  conscious  of  their  virtues'  power. 

Arise,  suppress  the  wicked  in  their  band. 

And  with  their  eyes  fixed  on  the  Polar  Star 

Of  Liberty,  with  steadfast  will  and  hand. 

Direct  their  course  through  whirpools,  shoals  and  cliffs, 

Into  the  harbor  of  prosperity. 

Santa  Anna. 

You  quite  forget  another  chance,  meseems, 
Which  is  of  all  the  likeliest,  to  wit  : 

\^Very  sterjily^ 
When  shall  the  rightful  owner  of  the  ship 
Regain  possession  of  his  property. 
And  visit  dire  but  righteous  punishment 
Upon  your  pirates'  heads  \sneeringly\  both  good  and 
bad? 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO,  8/ 

Elsie. 

All  lies  with  God  !  but  see,  where  we  have  come ! 

The  guiding  compass  of  my  humble  prayer, 

Lost  out  of  view,  my  lips  unwittingly 

Have  uttered  a  political  address, 

Apt  to  offend  thee,  were  it  not  for  this  : 

lis  purport  was  the  interest  of  Truth, 

Its  boldmss  proved,  that  still  I  mean  you  well, 

And  its  excuse  of  being  made  at  all 

Lies, — as  you  self  will  generously  admit. 

Less  in  my  rashness  than  your  provocation. 

Aspersions  thrown  upon  her  native  land, 

A  Texan  maiden  will  and  must  refute. 

E'en  though  it  cost  her  freedom  and  her  life. 

Santa  Anna. 
[  With  gallantry^ 

No  life,  no  freedom!  but  an  hour's  time 

Which  I  could  scarce  have  passed  more  pleasantly. 

[Enters  Cos.l^ 
Cos. 
This  is  the  hour  appointed  to  survey 
Convenient  places  for  the  batteries, 
In  case  we  must  bombard  the  Alamo. 

Santa  Anna. 
*Tis  well !  I  shall  be  out  immediately. 

{^Exit  Cos!\ 


88  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Miss  Bradburn  !  stern  necessity  demands 
My  presence  elsewhere  'gainst  my  inclination. 
Forgive,  if  I  depart  :  as  for  your  prayer, 
We  will  consider  it  and  let  you  know. 

\He  accompanies  Elsie  to  the  door.     Exit  Elsie ^ 
Were  that  a  sample  of  a  Texan  maiden 
My  foes  would  seem  redoubled  all  at  once. 
I  hope  it  not  ;  for  while  the  wrath  of  man 
Is  like  a  conflagration,  fierce  but  brief, 
The  hate  of  woman  is  a  smouldering  fire. 
Imbibed  through  mother's  milk  for  generations. 
These  Bradburns  must  be  watched;  it  will  not  do 
To  nurse  two  serpents  in  our  bosom's  fold. 

\He  taps  a  bell.     Enters  Prado^ 

Prado. 
What  is  Your  Excellency's  command  ? 
Santa  Anna. 

Seest  thou 
This  purse  of  gold  ?     It  is  within  thine  reach. 

Prado. 
How,  how,  Your  Excellency  ?    What  must  I  do  ? 

Santa  Anna. 
Spy  out  a  way  to  Colonel  Bradburn's  tent, 
And  there  concealed  essay  to  overhear 
Each  word  that  he  or  that  his  daughter  speaks, 
And  faithfully  report  them  back  to  me. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO,  89 

Prado. 
I  understand  Your  Excellency's  command, 
And  forthwith  haste  to  enter  on  my  duty. 

\Exit  Santa  Anna^  followed  by  Prado^ 


Scene  VIII. 

JBradb urn's  tent.  Bradbum  appears  equipped  for  the 
journey.  Enters  Elsie.  Jose  Frado^  Santa  Anna's 
servant^  is  seen  protruding  his  head  from  beneath 
the  tent-ca?ivas. 

Elsie. 
Where  goest  thou,  father  ? 

Bradburn. 

To  the  Alamo, 
Whose  garrison,  by  my  commander's  will, 
I  am  to  summon,  that  they  render  up 
Themselves,  their  arms,  and  all  the  fort  contains. 

Elsie. 
And  weenest  thou  a  moment,  that  they  will 
Accede  to  thy  dishonoring  demand  ? 

Bradburn. 
I  cannot  tell  thee;  the  result  will  show. 
Yet  when  the  hopelessness  of  their  defence. 
Their  isolation  and  impending  doom, 


90  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 


Are  clearly,  sternly  pointed  out  to  them, 
I  doubt  not  but  they  will  relent  and  yield. 
Besides,  is  Travis  not  the  fort's  commander, 
Whose  future  prospects,  brotherly  concern 
And  cherished  love,  if  they  are  truly  felt. 
Must  overbalance  his  defiant  pride, 
Whose  end  can  only  be  a  wretched  death  ? 

Elsie. 
A  glorious  death,  which  he — I  know — will  choose 
A  thousand  times,  ere  he  descends  to  shame. 

\Beseechingly?^ 
My  father  !  see,  I  know  thy  love  for  me, 
A  love,  as  true  as  blind  and  ill-advised. 
Which,  like  the  glitter  of  a  will-o'-whisp. 
Has  led  thee  unaware  but  steadily 
Deeper  and  deeper  on  thy  erring  way. 
As  sailors  on  a  dangerous  coast  sometimes 
Are  lured  to  ruin  through  a  glaring  light, 
By  wicked  pirates  lit  to  imitate 
A  beacon-light,  so  has  thy  ill-judged  love 
Ensnared  thy  reason  with  deceptive  power. 

\Fervidly.^ 
Tall  back  !  turn  round  !  reverse  thy  life-ship's  course, 
Ere  yet  it  strikes  against  the  fatal  rocks, 
Ere  yet  the  fiends,  who  watch  with  secret  joy 
Its  fast  approaching  doom,  leap  on  its  deck 
And  feast  upon  the  downfall  of  thy  hopes. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO,  9 1 

Confide  in  me,  thy  child,  thy  truthful  pilot 
Who  still  can  bring  thee  safely  into  port. 


Bradburn. 


How,  how? 


Elsie. 
And  wilt  thou  not  reveal  my  secret  ? 

Bradburn. 
No,  Elsie,  no  !  I  vow  it  by  thine  love  I 

Elsie. 
There  is  a  hidden  passage,  long  forgot 
It  seems,  by  all  who  dwell  around  these  parts, 
Solely  beknown  to  me,  since  when,  as  child, 
I  lingered  here,  as  thou  wilt  still  remember. 
It  leads  from  here  into  the  Alamo, 
The  only  port  we  now  can  safely  reach. 
But  yet  it  is  a  port  of  patriotism. 
Of  fame  and  honor  !     Let  us  steer  for  it. 

Prado. 
[  With  subdued  voice^ 
That  news  will  pay  ! 

Bradburn. 

But,  child,  the  Alamo 
Will  soon  surrender  to  the  Mexicans. 
What  were  our  fate,  if  they  entrapped  us  there? 


92  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Elsie. 
It  will  not,  can  not :  Travis  holds  the  fort, 
And  Texan  patriots  are  its  garrison. 

Bradburn. 
Unless  they  yield,  their  doom  is  certain  death. 

Elsie. 
What  if  it  is?     So  let  us  die  with  them  ! 

Bradburn. 
Heroic  child  ! — But  let  us  bide  our  time, 
Ere  we  select  this  last  of  remedies. 
I  will  fulfill  my  mission  ;  if  it  fails, 
Thy  way  proposed  lies  open  still  to  us. 

Elsie. 
[In  profound  despair J\ 
Alas  !  't  will  be  too  late. 

Bradburn. 

Farewell,  my  child. 
[Bradburn  turns  to  go.  Then  Elsie ^  overcome  by  the  pre- 
sentiment of  an  impending  danger^  flings  her  armi 
around  his  fieck,  and  after  a  long  embrace  disappears 
into  an  adjoining  part  of  the  tent.  When  Bradburi 
and  Elsie  have  gone^  Josd  Prado^  crawling  from 
beneath  the  canvas  and  slyly  peeping  around^  speak: 
with  exultation,  while  rubbing  his  hands. ^ 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  93 

Prado. 

Prado  !  thy  luck  is  made !  a  minute's  space 
Did  more  for  thee  than  all  thy  life-time's  race. 

\Exit  Prado.^ 

Scene  IX. 

A  room  in  the  upper  story  of  the  barracks  of  the  AIa??to, 
Col.  Bowie  {injured  by  a  fall  from  the  platform  the 
day  preceding  the  assault)  is  seen  lying  07i  a  couch. 
Enter  Col.  Travis  and  Col.  Crockett. 

Bowie. 

Hail,  brave  companions,  hail  !     Thermopylae 

Has  by  your  valor  been  eclipsed  to-day. 

Oh  !  that  your  gallant  deeds  might  have  been  seen 

By  the  admiring  gaze  of  humanity. 

Alas  !  performed  here  in  the  western  wild, 

They  will  escape  the  writer's  graphic  pen  ! 

Yet, — to  have  saved  the  land,  the  rising  nation, 

That  consciousness  will  ever  be  your  part. 

How  deeply  mourn  I  my  sinister  fate 

That  kept  me  from  this  glorious  fight  away. 

Still, — even  to  have  witnessed  it,  what  joy! 

How  first, — each  man  upon  his  post  they  fired 

Deliberately  into  the  hostile  ranks, 

As  though  it  were  a  friendly  shooting-match; 


94  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

How  then   when  scaled  the  foe  our  walls,  they  vied 
In  rushmg  fortJi  with  knife  and  bayonet 
To  where  a  head  appeared  above  the  crest, 
And  hurled  them  headlong  in  the  yawning  deep; 
And  how  at  last,  almost  without  command, 
They  sallied  from  the  gate  and  spread  dismay 
And  slaughter  'mong  the  routed  enemy; 
And  that,  so  far  my  eye-sight  could  observe, 
With  but  the  loss  of  one, — one  single  man, 
Who,  carried  by  his  ardor  far  ahead 
Before  the  others,  sank  bedecked  with  wounds, 
And  so  was  captured.     Say,  who  was  the  man  ? 

Col.  Travis. 
He  was  my  brother. 

Bowie. 

What }     Thy  brother  James  ? 

Col.  Travis. 

'Twas  he,  the  true,  the  noble-hearted  youth, 
Cut  down  in  earliest  bloom,  in  day-spring's  glow. 
While  on  the  walls  he  battled  at  my  side, 
Three  Mexicans  upon  the  outmost  wing 
Had  clambered  o'er  the  crest,  and  were  about 
To  leap  beneath  and  ope  the  western  gate. 
Whereon  we  two  alone  confronted  them ; 
My  brother  took  one  man  and  so  did  I. 
I  had  not  fully  yet  dispatched  my  foe, 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  95 

And  was  still  kneeling  o'er  his  prostrate  form, 
When  gleamed, — a  dizzy  shadow  as  of  death, — 
The  sword-blade  of  the  third  before  mine  eye  ; 
One  moment's  faint — a  sullen  fall — I  woke 
And  saw  our  third  opponent  lying  dead, 
And  standing  by  with  smiling,  radiant  face, 
My  brother  James  ;  no  word  was  interchanged  ; 
One  mute  but  meaning  pressure  of  the  hand 
Alone  betokened  what  we  thought  and  felt. 
We  hasted  to  rejoin  our  friends;  the  storm 
Repulsed,  I  gave  the  signal  for  the  sally. 
And  rushing  out  I  lost  my  brother's  trace. 
Once  only,  through  a  break  among  the  clouds 
Of  battle-dust  and  powder-smoke,  I  saw 
His  figure  as  encircled  by  a  halo, 
Far,  far  in  our  advance.     I  called  to  him. 
He  looking  back  an  instant,  waved  his  sword, 
And  then  was  lost  amid  the  swaying  crowds. 
A  hostile  column  just  advancing  then 
Against  our  men,  claimed  all  my  watchfulness. 
And  screened  my  brother's  fate  from  out  my  view. 
Poor  brother  James  !     Upon  our  start  from  home 
My  mother,  loath  to  let  her  darling  go, 
Enjoined  on  me  his  safety  with  these  words  : 
"  Watch  o'er  him  as  the  pupil  of  thine  eye, 
And  bring  unharmed  him  back  again  tome. 
Or  else  I  shall  despair  of  godly  mercy  !  " 
What  shall  I  then  on  my  return  respond 


96  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO, 

Unto  her  question  :  "  Where  is  James,  thy  brother?  " 
Oh  !  I  shall  never,  nevermore  return  ; 
My  fate  is  sealed  in  his  ;  I,  too,  shall  die. 

Bradburn. 
Despair  not,  faithful  friend  !     If  he  is  dead, 
His  blood,  shed  in  the  cause  of  Liberty, 
Will  rise  like  incense  to  the  heavenly  throne; 
Who  in  return  will  pour  His  comfort's  balm 
Into  thine  mother's  heart  with  angel's  voice. 
But  if  alive,  trust  that  thou  shalt  behold 
His  face  again;  for  cruel  though  they  be, 
The  enemy  will  hardly  disregard 
The  laws  of  human  mercy  as  to  lay 
Their  hands  on  one  so  young,  so  fair,  so  brave. 
Wilt  thou  not  ascertain  through  flag  of  truce, 
If  he  be  'mong  the  living  or  the  dead  ? 

Crockett. 
This  was  the  subject  which  in  coming  here 
We  were  discussing.     Hard  as  it  may  seem, 
'Twere  meanwhile  scarcely  prudent  to  expose 
More  precious  lives  to  Mexican  revenge, 
The  more,  as  they  have  raised  since  their  defeat 
A  jet-black  flag, — I  know  not,  if  to  show 
That  all  seems  black  to  them,  or  that  they  bear 
Black  marks  from  all  the  blows  received  through  us. 
The  only  means  to  mend  this  ^'  casus  belli," 
As  we  in  Congress  styled  such  knotty  point, 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO,  9/ 

Were  at  the  enemy's  next  attack  to  catch 
One  of  their  officers  and  him  to  hold 
As  hostage  subject  to  exchange. 

Travis. 

I  see 
The  force  and  justice  of  thy  counseling  words. 
All  we  can  do  is  to  abide  in  patience, 
And  hopefully  await  the  nearing  crisis. 

\Ente7's  Captain  Kimble^ 
But  see,  who  comes.     What  tidings,  Captain  Kimble  ? 

Kimble. 

An  officer,  dispatched  by  Santa  Anna 

And  shielded  by  a  flag  of  truce,  stands  waiting 

Before  the  gate.     He  bears  from  his  commander 

A  peaceful  message  which  he  will  deliver 

To  thee  in  private,  witnesses  excluded. 

Travis. 

I  wish  no  secret  dealings  with  the  enemy ; 

My  subalterns  are  equally  my  friends. 

Though  yearns  my  heart  to  know  my  brother's  fate, 

I  will  not  list  to  private  negotiations. 

Kimble. 

He  says,  unless  he  speak  to  thee  in  secret, 
He  must  return  with  object  unaccomplished. 


98  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Bowie. 

So  waive  for  once  thy  honorable  objection; 
There  is  no  harm  in  hearing  what  he  brings. 

Crockett. 
Yes,  Travis,  do,  for  we  confide  in  thee. 

Travis. 
If  such  is  your  desire  I  will  submit. 

{^Addressing  Captain  Kimble^ 
So  bring  him  to  this  room  with  eyes  blindfolded, 
But,  Crockett,  thou  and  other  comrades  stand 
Before  the  door,  expectant  of  my  call. 

\Exit  Kimble  through  a  door  in  the  rear.  Crockett  and 
Baiuie^  the  latter  on  crutches^  leave  through  a  side- 
door  ^^ 

Scene  X. 

CoL  BradburUy  with  eyes  blindfolded^  is  shoum  into  the 
room  by  Kimble. 

Travis. 
Remove  thy  bandage,  man  !     What,  Bradburn,  thou  } 
Again  thou  comest  in  the  tyrant's  van 
To  desolate  the  peaceful  homes,  the  fields 
Of  thine  own  countrymen,  and  to  deprive  them 
Of  rights  inalienable,  holy,  old, 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  99 

For  which  thine  fathers  shed  their  precious  blood  ? 
But  if  thou  must,  why  hidest  thou  not  thy  shame 
Behind  the  minions  of  the  tyrant's  host, 
Instead  of  coming  with  defiant  brow 
Into  the  midst  of  those,  whose  every  glance 
Must  call  thy  sore  disgrace  before  thy  mind. 

Bradburn. 
I  hither  come,  bound  by  my  oath  and  duty. 
To  follow  which  is  virtue,  no  disgrace. 
'Tis  you  who  are  at  fault ;  you  broke  your  faith 
To  Mexico's  benevolent  republic. 

Travis. 
If  thou  call  Santa  Anna  Mexico, 
And  tyranny  a  righteous  government, 
I  then  will  not  contest  thy  sophistry  ! 
Therefore  enough  of  this  !  So  let  me  know 
The  purpose  of  thine  unexpected  call. 

Bradburn. 
His  Excellency,  Don  Lopez  Santa  Anna, 
Presents  to  thee  his  all-respectful  greeting 
And  summons  thee,  together  with  thy  band 
Of  rebels,  to  surrender  on  discretion 
This  fort,  with  all  its  cannon  and  provisions. 
He  will  enclose  in  light  imprisonment 
Thy  garrison,  till  peace  has  been  restored ; 
But  were  you  to  continue  your  defence 


lOO  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

He  will  not  spare  man,  woman,  child  or  babe. 
Were  he  obliged  to  enter  by  assault. 

Travis. 
Imprisonment  or  death  ?     Is  that  the  choice .? 
We  choose  the  latter.     Bradburn,  spare  thy  words. 

Bradburn. 
Of  thee  alone  His  Gracious  Excellency 
Will  make  exception,  if  thou  yield  to-night. 
In  appreciation  of  the  gain  of  time 
And  the  avoided  blood  which  thy  surrender 
Confers  on  him,  he  will  present  to  thee 
An  hazienda  near  the  capital, 
The  finest,  largest,  best-tilled  of  the  many 
Which  Mexico  can  boast  of,  and  besides 
A  generous  endowment  paid  in  coin. 
Will  that  not  tempt  thee,  Travis? 

Travis. 

Tempt  me  ?  No! 
Thine  words  convey  too  plainly  Satan's  craft  ; 
Though  knave  enough,  thou  lackest  depth  of  cunning. 

Bradburn. 
But,  Travis,  list !  if  to  that  weighty  scale 
Of  golden  expectations,  great  rewards, 
I  self  were  yet  to  add  the  greatest  prize — 
My  daughter's — Elsie's — hand,  would   that  not    move 
thee? 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  lOI 

Speak  but  the  word:  '^  I  yield,"  and  e'en  to-night, 
Instead  of  bomb-shell  hissing  through  the  air, 
And  Congreve-rockets  lighting  up  the  sky, 
The  joyous  nuptial-torch  shall  be  ignited 
O'er  thee  and  her:  for  she  has  come  with  me. 

Travis. 

Elsie  is  here? — so  nigh  to  me? — and,  oh! 
Whole  worlds  could  keep  no  farther  us  apart. 

Bradburn. 

Yes,  she  is  here,  within  my  tent,  and  full 

Of  longing  expectation  bides  the  hour 

That  shall  restore  thee  to  her  unchanged  love. 

So  come  with  me,  that  I  may  join  your  hands. 

His  Excellency,  with  delicate  discretion. 

Requires  thee  not  to  fight  thy  countrymen, 

But  will  dismiss  thee  with  thy  youthful  bride 

To  Mexico  forthwith,  where  you  may  dwell 

On  the  estate  he  will  donate  to  you ! 

'Mid  balmy  air,  soft  as  a  maiden's  touch, 

'Mid  orange-groves,  dark-leaved  with  golden  fruit, 

'Mong  babbling  springs  that  leap  from  the  Sierra's 

Ice-covered  summits,  sparkling  in  the  sun, 

Thy  barns  well-stored  with  grain,  thy  stalls  with  cattle, 

A  cosey  house  with  numerous  attendants, 

O'er  which  presides  a  youthful,  loving  wife, 

What  greater  happiness  upon  this  earth  ? 


I02  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO, 

Travis. 

Thou  paintest  well:  and  yet  thy  picture  fails 
To  mention  one  unpleasant  visitor 
That  would  cohabit  there  with  me  for  aye, 
Galling  each  joy,  embittering  every  pleasure. 

Bradburn. 
I  know  not  what  thou  meanest,  man  ? 
Travis. 

Disgrace  ! 
Disgrace  before  my  friends  and  countrymen, 
Disgrace  before  my  very  enemies, 
And  worse  than  all,  disgrace  before  myself. 
And  if  thou  say  that  Elsie  could  desire 
To  have  for  husband  a  dishonored  man, 
I  answer  thee:  a  thousand  times,  no,  no  ! 
Thou  canst  not  rob  us  of  the  confidence 
Wherewith  we  trust  each  other,  though  divided. 
For  love  and  honor  are  the  self-same  thing 
In  every  heart  whose  pulse  throbs  for  the  right. 
True  to  oneself  is  to  be  true  to  all. 
If  nothing  else  be  thy  commission  than 
To  test  my  strength,   thou    couldst  have    spared  that 

trouble. 
Where  actions  speak,  words  might  be  fitly  saved. 

Bradburn. 
If  nought  will  overcome  thy  stubbornness, 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  IO3 

^  So  shudder  then  at  what  I  tell  thee  last. 
Thy  brother  James — 

Travis. 

My  brother  ?  what  of  hhn  ? 

Bradburn. 
Was  captured  at  your  sally  of  this  morning, 
And  well  attended  to,  will  soon  recover 
His  health,  impaired  by  wounds  he  has  received; 
Yet  were  thine  bold  resistance  to  endure 
But  one  more  day.  His  Excellency  has  vowed, 
By  tortures  never  heard  of,  never  seen, 
To  blind  his  eyes,  to  tear  with  red-hot  tongs 
His  handsome,  youthful  form,  limb  after  limb, 
And  these  to  hurl  before  the  dogs  and  vultures. 

Travis. 
Poor  brother  James!     Would  I  were  in  thy  stead  ! 

Bradburn. 
Determine  then!  my  time  is  nearly  gone, 
When  bides  our  Chief  Commander  my  return. 

Travis. 
Determine  what?     Surrender?    Ah,  thou  errest; 
Though  great  the  trial  and  grievous  the  temptation, 
I  hold  this  fort  until  my  latest  breath. 
Torture  my  brother!  youthful  as  he  is, 
He  will  not  owe  his  life  to  my  disgrace! 


104  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Withhold  the  maid  I  love;  we  better  live 

Apart  for  aye  than  mated  with  dishonor! 

Assault  and  take  this  fort,  kill  every  man; 

It  is  for  what  we  hither  came  prepared. 

And  lest  thou  think  that  my  companions  fail 

To  share  my  fortitude  and  fearlessness, 

From  their  own  lips  thou  shalt  now  hear  the  proof. 

\He  goes  to  every  door  and  calls  wiihoiU^ 
Come,  Crockett,  Bowie,  Dickinson  and  Kimble, 
Come  hither  all  who  hearken  to  my  voice. 


Scene  XI. 

Enter  Crockett^  Dickinson^  Kimble  and  Bowie,  the  latter 
on  his  crutches^  through  the  side-door:  some  volunteers 
from  the  door  in  the  rear,  Bowie,  after  his  entrance 
lies  down  on  the  couch. 

Travis. 
My  friends  !  I  have  convened  you  here,  that  you 
May  likewise  give  your  answer  to  the  summons, 
Which  Santa  Anna  has  conveyed  to  us 
Through  Colonel  Bradburn  here,  his  messenger. 
'Tis  his  demand,  that  unconditionally 
We  render  up  to  him  this  forteress. 
So,  David  Crockett,  give  him  thine  reply! 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  I05 

Crockett. 

A  thousand  times  I  have  confronted  death 
In  my  own  cause,  in  warfare  hardly  glorious; 
And  should  I  now  by  cowardice  and  fear 
Belie  the  stainless  record  of  my  life, 
Now  when  a  martyr's  crown,  the  highest  prize 
To  which  I  have  aspired,  is  in  my  reach  ? 
No,  Colonel  Bradburn  !  tell  thy  tyrant  lord 
That  David  Crockett  always  has  abhorred 
The  name  of  bondage  from  his  earliest  breath 
And  is  enjoyed  to  prove  this  by  his  death. 

Bowie. 

\From  his  couch^ 

I  cannot  stand  erect,  as  it  were  meet, 
To  hurl  my  bold  defiance  at  thy  feet ; 
Know  then  that  only  over  Bowie's  bier 
Thy  master  e'er  will  hold  his  entry  here. 

Kimble. 

Yea,  we  will  save,  our  faithful  swords  in  hand. 
The  cherished  freedom  of  our  native  land. 
Or  gladly  fall,  with  this  our  battle-cry: 
"  Free  men  w^e  live,  and  free  men  we  will  die!  ** 

All  present. 
Free  men  we  live,  and  free  men  we  will  die! 


Io6  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO, 

Travis. 

Thou  hast,  I  ween,  received  sufficient  proof 
What  spirit's  power  pervades  my  friends  and  me. 
So  go — too  long  already  have  thy  feet 
Disgraced,  profaned  this  hero-hallowed  soil. 
Thou,  Kimble,  let  him  through  the  western  gate 
Safely  depart  as  first  with  bandaged  eyes. 
But  that  the  enemy  may  glean  the  sooner 
Our  answer  to  their  ignominious  threats, 
Thou,  Dickinson,  have  forthwith  all  the  cannon 
Upon  the  south-side  fired  against  their  lines, 
So  that  their  iron  messengers  proclaim 
With  thundering  tone  into  the  tyrant's  ear  : 

Above  their  lives,  o'er  wealth  and  high  estate, 
Americans  freedom  and  honor  rate; 
We  are  prepared  for  death;  now  storm,  now  rave, 
The  Alamo's  debris  shall  be  our  grave  !  " 

\^All  depart  with  the  exception  of  Travis  and  Crockett ?[ 


Scene  XII. 
Enters  Major  Evans. 
Evans. 
I  hasten  to  report,  that  Santa  Anna 
Was  spied  surveying  o'er  the  grounds,  no  doubt, 
To  mark  the  places  where  the  batteries 
Shall  be  erected  to  bombard  the  Alamo. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  lO/ 

Against  their  cannon,  mortars  and  cohorns 
Our  guns,  light  as  they  are,  cannot  avail, 
Nor  will  our  walls  for  any  length  of  time 
Withstand  their  onslaught.     What  is  thy  command  ? 

Travis. 
Nought  more  we  can  perfect  in  our  arrangements, 
And  if  we  could,  our  men  are  too  fatigued 
By  day-alarms  and  nightly  toil  of  watching. 
Their  efforts  must  be  spared,  till  comes  the  end! 
God's  will  be  done !     As  eve  has  broken  in, 
Relieve  the  guards  and  scouts  and  let  the  men 
Whom  duty  not  withholds,  convene  beneath 
The  chapel's  strong  and  well-protected  walls. 
A  holy  service,  brief  but  soul-inspiring, 
Would  not  be  out  of  place  in  our  condition ; 
So,  Evans,  make  this  wish  of  mine  be  known 
To  Chaplain  Smith  :  if  ever  by  his  speech 
He  swayed  his  listeners'  hearts  to  do  it  now. 
But,  Crockett,  thou,  take  my  command  awhile; 
Not  having  rested  since  the  enemy  came 
Before  the  fort,  I  feel  the  want  of  sleep. 

\Exemit  Crockett  and  Evans^ 

Scene   XIII. 

Colonel  Travis  alone. 
Sleep  ?  Can  I  sleep  }  Oh,  bitter  irony ! 
When  scarce  I  breathe  beneath  the  heavy  burden 


I08  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Of  gloomy  care  that  weighs  upon  my  heart. 

The  convict  in  his  cell  may  close  his  eyes, 

The  murderer,  doomed  to  expiate  his  crime, 

May  sleep  away  the  night,  that  is  his  last; 

The  usurer  upon  his  downy  pillow 

May  rest  in  slumber  like  an  honest  man, — 

While  the  defender  of  his  country's  freedom, 

The  victor  of  to-day,  craves  all  in  vain 

The  boon  of  sleep  upon  his  heavy  heart. 

And  may  not  my  resolve,  my  steadfastness 

Prove  after  all  a  useless  sacrifice  ? 

What  has  the  blood  of  all  the  noble  Poles 

Accomplished  but  to  rivet  closer  still 

The  fettering  shackles  of  their  fatherland  ? 

And  may  not  here  the  ecstasy  of  freedom 

Die  out  as  quickly  as  it  first  arose, 

A  fire  of  straw,  extinguished  by  a  shower? 

Or  else,  may  not  the  despot's  energy, 

His  skill,  his  wealth,  his  overwhelming  numbers, 

Become  triumphant  over  patriotism, 

However  deeply  it  inspire  the  Texans  ? 

For  what  then  sacrifice  those  faithful  men 

Who,  fathers,  brothers  and  beloved  sons, 

Will  long,  ah!  long  be  missed  with  tears  at  home  ? 

For  what  endanger  then  my  brother's  life, 

Whose  loss  will  blight  my  mother's  peace  for  aye  ? 

For  what  then  mar  the  tender  blossom's  bloom 

Which  at  my  death  will  droop  her  head  and  fade  ? 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO,  IO9 

Have  I  a  right,  because  /  deem  it  right, 
Thus  to  dispose  o'er  weal  and  woe  of  thousands  ? 
And  what  perchance  may  be  my  own  reward  ? 
A  rash  and  unsuccessful  rebel's  fame, 
The  school-boy's  sneer,  the  tyrant's  welcome  proof  ?         ^ 
Oh  !  where  to  find  the  right,  the  honest  way 
That  leads  midway  these  cliffs  of  doubt  and  fear 
Into  the  haven  of  security? 

\^He  steps  to  the  windo7v,  through  which,  when  opened  by 
him,  the  light  of  the  moon  is  thrown  into  the  room. 
Gazing  without,  he  continues :^ 
Oh,  peaceful  Night!  thou  grateful  balm  of  rest 
To  sorrow-burdened  hearts  and  weary  eyes: 
So  also  pour  thine  blessings  o'er  my  breast 
And  soothe  its  throes,  relieve  its  cares  and  sighs. 
Let  me  not  falter  in  this  grievous  test. 
But  make  for  me  a  polar-star  arise, 
A  beacon-light,  to  guide  my  darkened  way 
And  cheer  my  spirit  by  its  blissful  ray! 
\At  this  moment  the  hy^nn  :  ^^ Abide  with  me  !'^  intuncd 
by  the  soldiers  in  the  chapel,  and  accompanied  by  *^'e 
organ,  is  faintly  heard  in  the  room.     During  the 
first    verse    Travis    stands    listening ;     when     the 
second  verse  is  begtm,  Travis,   raising  his  ai-ms  to 
Heaven,  speaks  with  the  greatest  ecstasy  .-] 
Oh,  song  of  peace!  soul-touching  melody! 
That  like  a  voice  of  God,  like  angels'  strain, 
From  heavenly  realms  comes  floating  down  to  me. 


I  lO  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO, 

Restores  my  courage,  makes  me  strong  again, 

And  points  my  wavering  heart's  despondency 

To  Him  who  can  alone  relieve  its  pain! 

Swell  onward,  till  my  bosom's  every  cell 

Is  thrilled  beneath  thy  comfort's  magic  spell ! 

\During  the  singing  of  the  third  verse,  heard  still  more 

distinctly,  Travis,  covering  his  face  tmih  his  hands  ^ 

becomes  absorbed  in  a  deep  reverie?^ 

Scene  XIV. 

Enters  Dickinson  in  great  haste. 

Dickinson. 
Oh,  welcome  tidings!  glorious,  joyous  news! 

Travis. 
What  is  it,  Dickinson?    So  speak,  I  pray! 

Dickinson. 
Below,  within  the  court-yard,  stand  arrayed 
A  band  of  thirty- two  confederates, 
Who  left  Gonzalez  under  Oldham's  guidance. 
Broke  bravely  through  the  hostile  lines  and  reached 
Unharmed  and  safe  the  shelter  of  our  fort. 
They  bring  dispatches  from  our  Chief  Commander, 
They  bring  their  own  stout  hearts  and  gallant  arms 
For  our  support,  but  above  all  they  bring  : 

[Enthusiastically.  ] 
"  The  Independence  of  the  State  of  Texas!  " 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  I  I  I 

Travis. 
[Trembling  with  /jyJi 
The — Independence — of  the — State — of  Texas  ? 

Dickinson. 
Pronounced  by  the  Convention  on  the  second. 

Travis. 

So  hurry,  Dickinson,  that  I  may  hear 

The  joyous  tidings  from  the  men's  own  lips. 

[£xit  DickinsonT)^ 
Almighty  Lord  in  Heaven  above.  Thou  hast 
Received  and  heard  my  bosom's  crying  voice 
Beyond  what  e'en  my  fondest  wish  conceived. 
I  begged  one  ray, — Thou  givest  me  a  sun; 
I  craved  one  hope, — Thou  sheddest  o'er  my  soul 
A  wealth  of  radiant  assurances; 
I  prayed,  that  not  quite  useless  were  my  death. 
And  lo!  Thou  crown'st  my  latest  hours  on  earth 
With  heavenly  light,  with  glory  as  of  Eden! 
Though  parting  from  this  world  I  leave  behind 
Friends  in  distress,  related  souls  in  grief, 
I  know  that  Thou,  oh.  Lord,  wilt  turn  all  things 
Unto  their  best,  and  hence  I  sorrow  not! 
Oh!  could  the  wavering  sceptic  who  disputes 
God's  lordly  power, — oh!  could  the  atheist, 
Proud  in  his  self-assuming  creed,  be  here, — • 
Upon  their  knees  they  reverently  would  sink, 


1 12  7 HE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO, 

Acknowledging  that  God  still  lives  and  reigns. 
But  I,  whose  way  and  goal  are  pointed  out 
So  clearly  now, — I  shall  no  longer  doubt 
God's  providence,  but  e'en  exclaim  in  death: 
"  Lord,  to  Thy  will  I  yield  my  parting  breath!  " 

Scene  XV. 

Enter  Col.  Oldham  and  some  of  his  compa?ty^  introduced 
by  Crockett  and  Dickinson. 

Travis. 
Be  welcome,  Colonel  Oldham;  welcome,  men! 
What  leads  your  footsteps  to  this  house  of  death  ? 

Oldham. 
The  wish  that  now  bestirs  each  Texan  heart. 
To  serve  the  best  they  can  their  young  Republic. 

Travis. 
Then  it  is  true,  what  scarce  I  could  believe  ? 

Oldham. 
Thou  findest  in  these  letters  due  assurance. 

\^He  hands  so??ie  dispatches  to  Travis.^ 
As  sweeps  a  fiery  blast  across  the  prairie 
Upon  the  pinions  of  a  hurricane, 
So  spread  from  town  to  town,  from  farm  to  farm, 
The  joyous  tidings  of  the  Declaration 
Of  Texan  Independence  through  the  land. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  II3 

As  in  the  year  of  Seventy-six,  when  rose 
Our  ancestors,  so  here  in  Thii'ty-six 
The  aged  sire,  the  yoeman  and  the  youth, 
Whoe'er  can  wield  a  musket  or  a  sword, 
Are  seen  to  hasten  to  the  gathering-place, 
While  on  the  country's  altar  lay  the  women 
Their  cherished  jewelry  and  e'en  their  tresses. 

Travis. 
Oh,  hail  this  day,  that  yet  my  eyes  have  seen. 
My  ears  have  heard  the  fresh-awakened  spirit 
Of  Liberty!  Yes,  Texas  will  be  free! 

Oldham. 
She  will,  she  «////,  though  only  through  a  struggle 
Than  which  no  greater  saw  this  century. 
Three  thousand  soldiers,  well-equipped  and  drilled, 
The  grim  Urrea  leads  from  Matamoras 
'Gainst  Goliad,  which  gallant  Fannin  holds 
With  scarce  four  hundred  of  our  patriots, 
While  Santa  Anna,  with  twelve  thousand  men, 
Lies  here  encamped,  with  many  more  to  come. 
For  't  is  his  safety  not  to  leave  behind 
A  single  man,  to  oust  him  from  his  power. 
Yet  also  we  are  not  devoid  of  help  ; 
Beside  our  yoemen,  dwellers  on  our  soil, 
Our  cause  enlists  a  hearty  sympathy 
In  the  United  States,  whence  many  thousands 
Are  on  their  way,  to  join  our  army's  ranks. 


114  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO, 

Travis. 

Thanks  for  the  joy  thou  gavest  to  our  hearts, 
Thanks  for  thy  zeal  and  aid;  thy  recompense 
Will  be  to  share  our  glorious  death  and  fame. 
While  farther  you  commune,  my  friends,  I  now 
Will  read  the  letters  from  our  Chief  Commander. 

\Stepping  aside^  he  opens  the  dispatches  and  reads  thein^ 
Dickinson. 

Pray,  tell  us,  Colonel  Oldham,  now,  what  motive 
Urged  thee  to  venture  back  into  this  fort. 
From  which,  if  I  am  right,  two  weeks  ago 
Thou  didst  depart  to  reach  thy  distant  home  ? 

Oldham. 
The  kind  reception  of  some  friends  I  met 
Upon  my  route,  and — must  I  say  ? — e'en  more, 
An  inward  voice  that  day  and  night  recalled 
My  lingering  steps  back  to  the  Alamo, 
Delayed  my  journey's  progress  at  Gonzalez. 
While  so  upon  the  eve  of  March  the  second 
My  friends  and  I  lay  quietly  encamped 
Behind  the  town,  we  saw  upon  the  road 
That  leads  from  Anahuac  to  this  fort, 
A  horseman  coming  in  the  utmost  haste. 
Arrived  he  fell,  faint  frorii  his  arduous  ride, 
Into  our  arms.     Concealed  on  him  we  found 
The  Chief  Commander's  orders  for  this  fort, 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  II5 

The  Proclamation  of  our  Independence, 

And  for  the  scattered  patriots'  bands  the  summons 

To  join  the  Army  on  the  Colorado. 

But  who  to  bring  the  message  to  this  fort, 

Which  as  we  knew,  was  grievously  besieged  ? 

And  shall  the  Alamo's  defenders  die, 

Not  having  shared  the  country's  glorious  joy  ? 

"  No,  no  ! "  we  cried,  *'  wherein  one  man  would  fail 

There  thirty-two  stout  bosoms  will  succeed." 

Two  wagons,  spanned  with  fleeting  horses,  brought  us 

Into  the  enemy's  lines,  through  which  we  dashed, 

Ere  yet  their  men  had  noticed  our  approach. 

Crockett. 

Our  honor's  cloak  has  fallen  on  your  shoulders, 
As  we  were  wont  in  Congress  so  to  say. 
Yours  was  no  breach  of  discipline  ;  it  was 
The  grandest  sacrifice  yet  seen.     But  list! 
His  letters  read,  the  Colonel  bides  our  hearing. 

Travis. 

Let  forthwith  all  the  garrison  assemble 
Wilhin  the  court-yard,  that  I  may  address 
My  gallant  friends  on  subjects  of  importance. 

\All  leave  the  room^ 


I  1 6  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Scene  XVI. 

Court-yard  of  the  Alamo^  where  the  men  composing  the 
garrison  of  the  Alamo  are  assembled.  Travis^  step- 
ping before  thetn^  takes  his  position  near  the  flag- 
staff, 

Travis. 

My  own  heart's  joy,  too  great  for  utterance, 
I  see  reflected  in  your  faces,  friends, 
Bespeaking  radiant  thoughts  and  glorious  hopes 
Of  all,  that,  best  and  highest,  moves  and  thrills 
The  human  heart.     For  now  we  know  for  what 
We  left  our  work,  our  homesteads  and  our  friends. 
For  what  we  seized  our  trusty  arms,  for  what 
We  gained  this  morning's  glorious  victory, 
And  most  of  all,  for  what  we  give  our  lives. 
Now  clearly  feeling,  seeing  this,  we  seem 
Translated  to  some  lofty  mountain-peak. 
Earth's  littleness  far,  far  below  our  feet, 
While  over  us  Heaven's  uproUed  azure-curtain 
Allows  us  glimpses  into  ampler  realms. 
Such  is  the  inspiration  of  a  holy  cause, 
That  it  removes  the  veil  of  mystery 
Which  blinds  our  mortal  eyes,  distends  our  view, 
And  renders  us  in  broader  sphere  of  spirit, 
Though  yet  on  earth,  akin  to  God  our  Maker. 
If  from  His  threshold  such  transfiguring  ray 
Is  thrown  on  heroes,  standing  yet  without^ 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  11/ 

How  inconceivable,  ah!  how  profound 

Must  be  the  light  that  welcomes  them  within. 

When  such  a  crown  awaits  our  future  state, 

It  is  scarce  needed,  that  I  tell  you  now 

The  message  I  received  from  our  Commander. 

He  writes,  that  yet  his  army  were  too  weak 

As  to  relieve  us,  that  we  should  maintain 

A  stout  defence,  and  that  we  hold  this  fort 

Unto  the  last,  for  on  our  brave  resistance  % 

Were  staked  the  welfare  of  our  young  Republic. 

Where  is  the  cheek  that  blanches  at  this  task  1 

Where  is  the  soldier  that  rejects  this  trust  ? 

Where  is  the  heart  that  would  not  gladly  grasp 

Such  opportunity  of  fame  immortal  ? 

Our  countrymen  inheriting  what  we 

To  them  have  bravely  vouchsafed  by  our  sword, 

Will  gratefully  hand  down  our  memories 

On  sculptured  marble  to  posterity, 

And  though  in  course  of  ages  even  this 

Should  fall,  as  sank  from  Vandal's  hand  the  pillar 

Amid  the  valley  of  Thermopylae, 

In  chords  triumphant  later  centuries 

Comparingly  will  chant  our  glory  thus : 

*'  Thennopylcz  one  herald  had  of  deaths 

The  heroes  of  the  Alamo  had  none  !  "* 

This,  this  will  be  our  glory,  our  reward; 

*  Inscription  of  the  Alamo-Monument  in  'the  State  House  at 
Austin.   . 


Il8  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

I  know  that  none  of  you  desires  a  lesser. 
Yet  though  our  earthly  time  draws  to  a  close, 
We  will  perform  our  duties  still,  as  meet. 
Whose  is  the  first  to  pledge  by  holy  oath 
Our  homage  to  our  virgin  commonwealth. 

\All  raising  the  fore-fingers  of  their  right  hands^  pro- 
nounce^ with  the  greatest  solemnity  and  in  unison^  the 
oath  following ;] 

All  present. 

We,  here  assembled  in  the  face  of  death, 
Swear  true  allegiance,  steadfast  faith  and  honor, 
With  body,  heart  and  soul,  to  our  Republic, 
The  sovereign  State  of  Texas,  and  to  guard 
On  land  and  sea,  by  day  and  night,  her  welfare 
Throughout  our  earthly  lives.     So  help  us  God  ! 

Travis. 
And  now  to  give  an  outward  sign  of  this. 
Our  holy  pledge,  to  God  alone  beknown, 
I  fling  our  country's  fitly  chosen  flag. 
The  pennon  of  the  Lone  Star,  to  the  breeze. 

YUe  hoists  the  flag  of  the  Lone  Star?^ 

Lone,  lone  it  flies  by  enemies  surrounded, 
Unfurled  *mid  dangers,  persecution,  death. 
Solely  relying  on  the  help  of  God 
And  on  its  people's  love  of  Liberty  ! 
But  just  as  yonder  radiant  Star  of  Eve 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  I  1 9 

Stands  out  alone  amid  the  desert  air, 

Yet  will,  ere  long,  resplendent  shine  among 

A  lustrous  multitude  of  beaming  spheres, 

So,  let,  us  trust,  that  soon  our  banner's  star 

Will  be  entwined  among  the  Twenty-four 

That  decorate  our  native  Union's  banner. 

Meanwhile  this  flag  of  ours,  when  dawns  the  day, 

Shall  silently  yet  full  of  meaning's  sway, 

Convey  the  tidings  to  the  enemy. 

That  'neath  its  folds  the  Texan  will  be  free. 

So  welcome  then  your  banner  by  its  Song, 

Whom  the  enchanted  breeze  shall  waft  along, 

Free  as  a  bird,  o'er  foe  and  tyrant's  art, 

Into  the  shrine  of  every  Texan  heart. 

\All  present  now  intune  with  the  greatest  enthusiasm  ;] 


THE  HYMN  OF  THE  LONE  STAR  FLAG.* 


There  was  a  band,  wan  and  forlorn, 
By  ceaseless  toil  and  watching  worn; 
Cut  off  from  friends  and  homes  and  world, 
With  shot  and  shell  upon  them  hurled. 
No  hope  was  theirs  of  aid  or  flight. 
Death  fronted  everywhere  their  sight. 

For  the  tune  of  this  Hymn  see  page  245. 


I20  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

But  faltered  they  ?     No,  no,  instead 
They  flung  this  banner  overhead  ! 

Flag  of  the  Lone  Star  !  oh,  glorious  sign! 

Where  is  the  banner  that  rivals  with  thine  ? 

Baptized  in  heroes'  blood,  by  martyrs  unfurled, — ■ 

Flag  of  the  Lone  Star!  thou  pride  of  the  world  ! 


That  little  band,  their  labors  done, 

Have  long  since  passed  away  and  gone : 

Yet  gallant  hearts  took  up  their  cry, 

And  kept  their  standard  waving  high. 

They  battled  bravely,  battled  long, 

'Gainst  whelming  numbers  fierce  and  strong, 

Till  Victr'y's  eagle  perched  at  last 

Upon  the  freemen's  banner-mast. 

Flag  of  the  Lone  Star!  oh,  glorious  sign! 
Where  is  the  banner  that  rivals  with  thine  ?  ' 

Baptized  in  heroes^  blood,  by  martyrs  unfurled, — 
Flag  of  the  Lone  Star!  thou  pride  of  the  world  I 


Ye  dwellers  in  the  Texan  land, 

Forget  ye  not  that  little  band  ! 

Forget  ye  not  the  heroes'  deeds 

That  planted  once  your  freedom's  seeds. 

Oh,  keep  their  memories  bright  and  clear, 

And  sacredly  their  graves  revere, 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  121 

But  more  than  all,  that  holy  dower, 
The  flag  they  raised  in  danger's  hour. 

Flag  of  the  Lone  Star  !  oh,  glorious  sign  ! 

Where  is  the  banner  that  rivals  with  thine  ? 

Baptized  in  heroes'  blood,  by  martyrs  unfurled, — • 

Flag  of  the  Lone  Star  !  thou  pride  of  the  world  ! 

[Curtain.] 

ACT   THIRD. 

Scene  I 

An  open  field  in  front  of  the  Mexican  camp.     Colonel 
Bradburn  returning  from  the  Alamo. 

Bradburn. 
What   moves   me   so  ?     what   strange,  what   unknown 

thoughts 
Storm  in  upon  my  heart  which  I  had  deemed 
So  well  intrenched,  so  strongly  fortified 
'Gainst  every  inward,  every  outward  voice  ? 
Where  now  are  all  my  self-invented  doctrines. 
That  cost  me  years  of  struggle,  nights  of  sorrow, 
To  raise  against  my  conscience  as  barrier. 
To  muffle  its  exhorting  voice,  to  lull 
By  fancied  right  my  reason  into  sleep  ? 
Where  is  that  memorized  vocabulary, 
That,  reinforced  by  well-learnt  scowls  and  gests, 


122  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO, 

Served  me  so  often  to  defend  my  course  ? 

As  chaff  is  scattered  by  a  gust  of  wind, 

So  lightly  have  my  schemes  been  blown  away; 

As  April  snows  melt  in  the  vernal  sun, 

So  has  the  ice-crust  o'er  my  innate  feelings 

Been  loosened  by  the  warmth  of  genuine  manhood 

When  that  confronted  me,  when  I  beheld. 

How  all  we  value  most,  gain,  pleasure,  life, 

How  all  we  shun  the  most,  loss,  pain  and  death, 

Forfeit  their  meaning,  lose  their  moving  power 

In  sight  of  greater  aims  and  real  truth, — 

Ah,  then  I  I  stood  dismantled  and  unmasked, 

Gazed  deep  into  my  bosom's  void,  and  saw 

All  gone,  all  gone  I  hitherto  had  cherished. 

But  also  then  I  took  the  stout  resolve. 

What  little  span  of  life  is  left  to  me. 

This  to  employ,  to  store  my  bosom's  shrine 

With  better  treasures.     But  what  now  to  do  ? 

So  feeling,  so  repenting  in  my  heart. 

Can  I  continue  in  the  vassalage 

Of  tyranny  and  bloodshed  and  injustice  ? 

That  were  no  penance,  that  were  mockery. 

Or  else  shall  I  return,  and  go  to  join 

My  gallant  brethren  in  the  Alamo, 

To  fight,  to  die  with  them  ?     That  were  desertion 

And  breach  of  oath,  another  dastard  crime. 

It  cannot  be,  the  more  as  I  should  leave 

My  daughter  Elsie  in  the  enemy's  hand, 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  1 23 

Exposed  to  all  that  vengeance  may  invent. 

What  shall  I  do,  where  progress  or  return 

Are  fraught  alike  with  guilt  or  retribution  ? 

Most  wretched  fate  of  man,  that  leadeth  him, 

Short-sighted,  weak  and  erring,  to  this  world, 

And  lets  each  little  sin  of  his  become 

A  mount  of  woes,  that  crush  him  by  their  weight, 

An  avalanche  of  pain,  that  buries  him, 

A  tangled  maze  of  errors  which  to  tear, 

He  needs  the  strength  and  wisdom  of  a  god  ! 

There  spreads  the  night  her  spangled  canopy, 

There  goes  the  moon  upon  her  radiant  course, 

There  move  the  fleecy  clouds  in  silvery  light. 

But,  stern  and  mute,  they  have  no  heart  for  me. 

No  solace  for  my  sorrow,  no  reply 

Unto  my  question  :  \despairingly\   "  Ah  !  what  shall  I 

do  ? " 
\He  sits  down  to  meditate.     Then  rising  energetically^  he 

continues  /] 
My  course  is  chosen.     Come  what  will !  I  7Jiust 
Redeem  my  error,  if  to  feel  relieved  !  . 

Yet  she,  who  innocent,  has  suffered  most 
Through  me,  her  father,  must  not  share  my  fate  !  , 

Hence  she  must  first  be  saved.     And  here  her  secret       j^ 
Comes  to  my  aid,  as  if  thus  planned  by  God. 
So  hastening  to  her  tent,  I  will  inform  her 
Of  my  design,  and,  oh  !    [^despairingly]  take — leave — 

from — her. 


124  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO, 

What  terrible  decision  ! — yet  I  must  ! 

Oh,  Elsie  !  had  I  listed  but  to  thee  ! 

[Hopefully.l     Maybe  that  all  may  yet  turn  for  the  best ; 

That  Santa  Anna  may  be  moved  to  truth 

Through  me,  as  /  was  through  my  hero-brethren. 

Or,  that  returning  my  sincerity 

By  generosity,  he  will  allow  me 

Hence  to  depart.    [^Resolutely.^   Still  were  no  less  than 

death 
To  be  the  expiation  of  my  wayward  course, 
I  shall  not  flinch  nor  beg,  but  solace  me 
With  that  grand  sentence  of  the  Irish  patriot  : 

**  Whether  on  the  gallows  high, 
Or  in  the  battle's  van, 
The  fittest  place  for  man  to  die 
Is,  where  he  dies  for  man  !  " 

[^Extt  Braddur?i.'\ 

Scene  11. 

Santa  Anna's  tent.     Enters  Santa  Anna  with  despatches 
in  his  hand.     Later  Frado  j  still  later,  Almonte. 

Santa  Anna. 
My  scouts  inform  me,  that  the  band  of  rebels 
Assembled  on  the  Colorado's  banks 
Is  waxing  stronger  every  day,  and  threatens 
To  hasten  to  the  Alamo's  relief. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  125 

And  more  than  that,  they  send  me  a  report 

Of  what  at  other  times  would  have  provoked 

My  merriment,  but  now  appals  my  mind 

With  spectral  fear:  my  scouts  announce  to  me 

The  Independence  of  the  State  of  Texas, 

As  so  declared  by  her  Convention.  \lmpatiently^    Ha  ! 

Were  but  this  fortress  in  my  hands,  I  should 

Soon  overthrow  their  lofty  aspirations. 

And  make  the  Texans  free  and  independent 

Of  land  and  lives  and  fortunes.  \Violently?[  I  must  have 

This  Alamo,  e'en  though  it  clung  by  chains 

To  heaven  itself.     Where  stays  that  Colonel  Bradburn  ? 

\Enters  Prado^ 
Well,  Prado  !  in  thy  countenance  I  read: 
Thou  bringest  me  some  tidings  worth  the  hearing. 

Prado. 

And  so  they  are  !  The  Alamo  is  yours, 
Without  so  much  as  an  assault  or  treaty, 

Santa  Anna. 

What  sayest,  man  !  thou  ravest — 

Prado. 

It  is  so  ! 
Concealed  behind  the  tent  of  Colonel  Bradburn, 
I  overheard  a  touching  colloquy, 
(Well  apt  to  move  me  to  the  bitterest  tears, 


126  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Had  I  but  had  the  time  to  spare  for  them), 
Between  the  father  and  his  handsome  daughter. 
Upon  her  knees  she  weepingly  besought  him 
To  leave  our  banner  and  to  flee  with  her 
To  what  she  deigned  to  call  a  port,  although 
In  my  geography  it  lies  remote 
From  any  ocean's  coast — 

Santa  Anna. 

Come  to  the  point ! 
What  was  the  port  she  meant  ! 

Prado. 

The  Alamo  ! 
Since  her  sojourn  in  this  vicinity, 
When  here  she  passed  her  tender  childhood's  years, 
She  knows  a  subterranean  passage-way 
That  leads  from  here  into  the  Alamo  ! 

Santa  Anna. 

So  it  is  true,  what  once  an  aged  Padre 

In  Mexico  has  told  me  !  would  the  man 

Could  guide  us  now  ! — But  then  we  have  a  guide. 

[Aloud  to  Pj'cido.] 
But  tell  me  !  was  it  said  in  that  converse 
Wh.re  lies  the  entrance  to  that  gallery.? 

Prado, 

Nought,  nought  was  said  about  that:  they  deferred 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO,  127 

This  theme's  discussion  until  the  return 
Of  Colonel  Bradburn  from  the  Alamo. 

Santa  Anna. 

\Handing  a  purse  to  Prado^ 
Thou  hast  done  well !     Receive  thy  promised  fee. 

Prado. 
I  thank  Your  Excellency  ! 

\Aside^  and  holding  up  the  purse  ^  while  Santa  Anna  is  ah- 
sorbed  i?i  meditation, ~\ 

'Tis  not  as  large 
As  when  at  first  held  out  to  me;  but  then: 
Time  wrinkles  brows  and  cheeks:  why  not  a  purse  ? 

Santa  Anna. 
Quick!  summon  General  Almonte  here. 

[^Exit  Hrado.l^ 
You  little  thought,  Miss  Bradburn,  when  you  made 
Your  wish  beknown  to  me,  that  each  your  word 
Gave  me  a  stone  in  hand,  wherewith  to  build 
Your  prison- walls,  where  easily  enough 
I  shall  your  secret's  knowledge  wrest  from  you, 
As  from  his  hound  the  hunter  takes  his  prey. 
None  but  his  equals  will  a  lion  combat. 
But  when  on  his  pursuit  of  royal  game 
A  mouse  opposes  him,  then  without  pity 
He  crushes  her  with  one  stroke  of  his  paw. 

\_Enters  AlmonteJ] 


128  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Almonte. 
Your  Excellency  have  sent  for  me — 

Santa  Anna. 

I  wish 
Thou  would  convey  this  message  to  Miss  Bradburn, 
That  her  request  was  ta'en  in  due  regard, 
And,  nought  opposing,  readily  is  granted. 
Congratulating  her  in  my  behalf 
To  the  fulfihnent  of  her  wish,  thou  wilt 
Without  a  moment's  loss  escort  the  lady 
To  Travis'  bed  in  Mission  of  Concepcion. 
Make  haste,  for  know,  that  our  campaign's  success 
Depends  upon  the  swiftness  of  thy  feet! 
^Exit  Almonte.      Santa   Anna  paces  the  room   in  deep 

meditation^ 
More,  ever  more,  this  spectre  Bradburn  towers 
Before  my  mind  like  a  foreboding  ill. 
Can  it  be  possible,  that  while  I  played 
The  god  to  him,  he  played  \\\q  fool  with  me  ? 
Suspicion  is  of  all  the  best  accountant: 
It  reckons  close  and  loses  not  one  item. 
So  let  us  see  how  his  account  now  stands: 
His  credit  thirteen  years'  unblemished  service, 
His  debit-entries  many,  though  not  large. 
Whose  is  the  first:  His  nationality; 
The  second:  His  surrendering  Anahuac  ; 
The  third:  The  transfer  of  his  property; 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  1 29 

The  fourth:  His  daughter's  open  heresy; 

The  last:  This  secret  passage-way's  concealment ; 

Sum  total:  Not  quite  equal  to  his  credit, 

Yet  close  enough  to  warrant  his  surveillance. 

Scene   III. 
Enters  General  Cos, 
Cos. 
Has  Bradburn  from  the  Alamo  returned  ? 

Santa  Anna. 
Impatiently  I  bide  his  coming  here; 
The  terms  of  the  surrender  may  detain  him. 

Cos. 
Thou  errest ;  we  shall  have  to  storm  the  fort. 

Santa  Anna. 
How  knowest  thou  ? 

Cos. 
They  sent  us  a  dispatch 
Whose  meaning  hardly  can  be  misconstrued: 
A  grim  reply  of  cannon-balls  that  killed 
Four  men  of  mine  exposed  to  their  discharge. 

Santa   Anna. 
No  time  must  then  be  lost!     Call  out  thy  men 
With  pick  and  spade,  to  raise  the  batteries 


130  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Wherewith  we  shall  bombard  the  Alamo. 

For  every  hour  we  forfeit  means  a  year 

Of  vigor  added  to  the  rebel  cause. 

Two  hours  from  hence  I  give,  when  must  our  guns 

Boom  o*er  this  land  the  death-knell  of  the  hopes 

Of  Texan  Liberty  and  Independence. 

Haste,  haste!  thy  fate,  our  fate  is  staked  upon 

The  speedy  downfall  of  the  Alamo. 

\Exit  Cos,     Santa  Anna  again  paces  the  room  in  deep 

meditation^ 
One,  one  more  item  added  to  thy  debit ; 
Bradburn  !  beware  !  thou  standest  at  the  brink 
Of  bankruptcy,  with  my  revenge  for  sheriff. 
Know'st  what  that  means  ?     Thou  mayst  as  well  expect 
Compassion  from  a  tiger  and  beseech 
A  serpent's  tender  mercy,  if  thou  durst 
Deceive  and  mock  whom  with  impunity 
None  ever  mocked.     Full  to  the  margin's  brim 
Thy  balance  is.     Let  it  not  overflow  ! 

Scene  IV. 

Enters  Colonel  Almonte. 
Santa  Anna. 

What  now,  Almonte  ?  hast  thou  faithfully 
Performed  the  mission  I  assigned  to  thee  ? 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  I3I 

Almonte. 
Your  Excellency's  command  has  been  obeyed. 
Miss  Elsie  Bradburn,  at  my  proffered  escort, 
Gave  her  consent  to  go  and  see  James  Travis, 
Whom  now  she  waits  upon  with  tender  care. 
O'erjoyed  to  see  her  prayer  fulfilled,  she  charged  me 
At  earliest  opportunity  to  lay 
Her  gratitude  before  Your  Excellency. 
Santa  Anna. 

\Aside?^ 
Ha,  ha  !  so  birds  feel  grateful  to  the  snarer 
Who  promises  to  them  their  favorite  food. 

{Aloud^j^ 
'Tis  well,  Almonte  ;  thou  mayst  go, — but  wait ! 
Hast  thou  perchance  in  Colonel  Bradburn's  tent 
Perceived  some  more  or  less  uncommon  signs 
Apt  to  arouse  thy  curiosity  ? 

Almonte. 
None  in  his  tent :  the  more  his  daughter's  conduct 
Appeared  to  me  a  riddle  and  surprise. 

Santa  Anna. 
What  was  it  ?  tell  me  quick  ! 

Almonte. 

A  grievous  fear 
Seemed  on  her  mind,  the  fear  about  her  father, 
.  For  whose  return  she  looked  with  anxious  care. 
But  then  again  she  could  not  well  conceal 


132  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO, 

A  secret  pleasure  *neath  the  mask  of  gladness 
O'er  the  fulfilment  of  her  late  petition. 
'Twixt  fear  and  joy  so  wavering,  she  at  last 
Resolved  to  go  with  me,  yet  not  until 
She  had  left  message,  that,,  so  soon  her  father 
Were  to  arrive,  he  should  immediately 
Join  her  at  Travis'  bedside.     This  request 
She  urgently  once  more  impressed  on  me, 
When  at  the  Mission  I  took  leave  from  her. 

Santa  Anna. 
This  play  must  end  !     My  dignity,  my  peace 
No  longer  must  be  jeopardized  by  fear 
Of  treachery  within  the  camp,  when  dread 
Of  treachery  without  is  bad  enough. 

\Sitting  dowft,  he  writes  a  few  hurried  lines^ 
List  well  to  my  command.     Thou  wilt  take  care 
To  see  that  Colonel  Bradburn,  as  I  ordered, 
Immediately  on  his  return  to  camp 
Come  here  and  enter  not  his  tent.     Then  bring 
Four  soldiers  from  the  guard  before  my  door. 
And  entering  at  the  signal  of  my  bell. 
Arrest  John  Bradburn  on  this  warrant's  charge. 

\He  gives  Almonte  a  paper.     Exit  Almonte^ 
Their  plan  was  flight,  and  now  the  cunning  girl 
Thinks  to  extend  it  on  the  prisoner  Travis. 
As  made  the  father  Bradburn  my  commission 
The  instrument  his  coming  to  announce, 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  I  33 

The  daughter  Bradburn  means  to  make  my  favor 
The  stepping-stone  for  Travis'  liberty. 
Finely  designed  that  plot  !  alas,  too  finely; 
Its  meshes  tear;  my  coarser  woof  is  better, 
Whose  iron  threads  and  seams  will  last  a  life-time. 

\Enters  Cos^ 
Cos. 
The  batteries  are  nigh  ready.     I  have  come 
To  herald  the  advent  of  Colonel  Bradburn, 
Who  'gainst  thy  order  and  express  command 
Was  on  the  point  of  entering  his  tent, 
When  intercepted  by  thy  aid-de-camp. 

Santa  Anna. 
How  good  my  timely  caution  !     But  for  that 
We  should  have  lost  the  honor  of  his  stay 
Among  us,  which  shall  now  be  guaranteed 
By  bonds  as  fast  as  human  art  can  make  them. 

Scene  V. 
Enters  Bradburn^  followed  by  Castrillon, 
Santa  Anna. 
Well,  Bradburn,  back  again  at  last;  thy  stay 
Was  long  enough  to  vouchsafe  good  success: 
When  can  we  hold  our  entry  in  the  fort  ? 

Bradburn. 
When  you  have  slain  the  last  of  its  defenders. 


134  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Santa  Anna. 

Is  this — I  ask — their  whole  reply? 

Bradburn. 

It  is. 

Santa  Anna. 

Well,  man  !  a  school-boy's  eloquence 

Could  have  succeeded  where  thy  art  has  failed. 

Were  not  our  hundred  guns,  our  whelming  numbers 

Convincing  arguments  enough  to  move 

The  must  tenacious  rebel  to  submission  ? 

Bradburn. 
What  scares  a  knave  stirs  not  a  hero's  blood. 

Santa  Anna. 
And  what  of  Travis  ?  hast  thou  not  essayed 
To  unnerve  his  resistance  by  thy  news  ? 

Bradburn. 
Like  inaccessible  to  bribe  and  threat, 
He  scorned  your  promise  and  defied  your  vengeance. 

Santa  Anna. 
But  would  thy  daughter's  promised  hand  not  melt 
His  stubbornness  as  wax  before  the  sun  ? 


Bradburn. 


13RADBURN. 

With  nought  but  deep  contempt  he  heard  my  offer. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  135 

Santa  Anna. 

Is  that  the  love  Miss  Bradburn  thinks  so  much  of  ? 
I  doubt,  if  still  she  will  appreciate  it. 

Bradburn. 

I  know  that  all  the  more  she  will  esteem 
His  fortitude  and  noble  sacrifice. 

Santa  Anna. 

Was  there  perchance  some  sign  that  they  awaited 
More  lenient  terms  and  offers  of  surrender  ? 

Bradburn. 

Firm  as  a  rock,  their  only  expectation 
Appeared  a  hero's  death,  a  martyr's  crown. 

Santa  Anna. 
In  this  respect  w^e  are  relieved  from  doubt 
Which  will  facilitate  our  future  course. 
This  to  determine  be  our  present  task. 
And  as  thy  mission,  Colonel  Bradburn,  gave 
Thee  an  advantage  over  us  to  form 
A  fixed  opinion,  let  us  hear  from  thee 
What  thou  consider'st  as  thy  best  advice. 

Bradburn. 
Your  Excellency  have  not  misjudged  my  mind  ; 
Although  I  fear  me  that  my  counsel  will 
Offend  your  ears  and  rouse  your  indignation. 


136  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Santa  Anna. 
Devoted  service,  true  fidelity- 
Views  less  the  wishes  than  the  happiness 
Of  him  who  seeks  advice,  e'en  at  the  pain 
Of  suffring  for  his  kindly-given  aid. 
Relying  on  our  generosity, 

Which  has  not  learnt  in  vain  how  to  distinguish 
The  person  from  his  office,  speak  thy  boldest. 

Bradburn. 

So  be  it  then  !  and  may  the  influence 

Of  Heaven  inspire  my  tongue  to  touch  your  heart. 

'T  be  far  from  me  to  shield  or  to  defend 

The  people  who  conjured  this  insurrection 

By  armed  resistance  'gainst  the  commonwealth, 

The  ballot's  patience  was  their  proper  course. 

But  still  I  doubt,  if  force  and  violence 

Be  yet  the  best,  the  most  appropriate  means 

To  lead  them  back  to  their  accustomed  duty. 

Santa  Anna. 
What  other  way  wouldst  thou  commend  to  us  ? 

Bradburn. 
You  have  asserted  your  authority, 
And  shown  your  power  they  never  can  defeat. 
So  make  it  known,  that,  if  they  will  abandon 
Their  rash  revolt  and  henceforth  will  abide 
In  peace  and  law,  in  loyalty  and  faith, 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  13/ 

Their  wilful  acts  for  once  will  be  condoned, 
Their  grievances  relieved,  their  rights  ensured. 

Santa  Anna. 
And  would  our  clemency  and  kind  forbearance 
Not  be  interpreted  as  fear  and  weakness  ? 
Or  can  the  dignity  of  our  Republic 
Afford  to  be  insulted  by  a  band 
Of  most  ungrateful  foreigners  to  whom 
We  gave  the  benefit  of  settling  here  ? 

Bradburn. 
Revenge  is  low  in  Man  as  well  as  State. 

Santa  Anna. 
*Tis  Justice  to  restrain  the  bad  by  force. 

Bradburn. 
'Tis  useful  oft  to  overlook  a  fault. 

Santa  Anna. 
'Tis  wiser  oft  to  kill  an  evil's  germ, 

Bradburn. 
'Tis  more  humane  to  cure  it  than  to  kill  it. 

Santa  Anna. 
What  warrants  their  obedience  in  the  future  ? 

Bradburn. 
Its  guaranty  should  rather  come  from  you. 


138  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Santa  Anna. 
I  long  to  hear  thee  prove  thy  argument. 

Bradburn. 

What  caused  this  insurrection  ?  what  has  filled 
The  heart  of  every  honest  Mexican 
With  sorrow  and  disgust  ?     The  overthrow 
Of  what  he  deemed  his  costliest  possession, 
His  constitution,  through  your  agency. 
Would  you  behold  this  land  restored  to  peace, 
To  rise,  to  flourish,  render  up  your  power 
And  leave  your  fellow-citizens  to  mould, 
Perfect,  enjoy  their  rights  of  Liberty. 

Santa  Anna. 

Yes,  Liberty  !  that  is  the  hue  and  cry, 

That  is  the  cloak  of  rogues  and  demagogues. 

Who  'neath  the  word's  great  meaning  wish  to  hide 

The  littleness  of  their  corrupt  desires. 

A  nation  must  be  ripe  for  Liberty. 

Inevitably  as  children  come  to  grief 

When  left  without  a  guide,  so  will  a  people. 

What  was  the  former  state  of  Mexico  ? 

Ere  I  reluctantly  agreed  to  take 

Into  mine  hand  the  reins  of  government  ? 

'Twas  anarchy,  disorder,  lawlessness. 

What  is  it  now  ?     The  roads,  alive  before 

With  robber-bands,  are  safe  for  travel  now. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  1 39 

Trade,  nigh  extinct,  again  bestirs  its  craft; 
Our  Catholic  faith,  almost  ignored,  despised, 
Anew  has  triumphed  over  heresy. 
So  tutored,  disciplined  and  educated. 
Our  people  will  htfree — not  otherwise. 

Bradburn. 

And  yet  your  school's  first  principle  is  this: 
That  one  may  do  what  others  are  forbidden. 

Santa  Anna. 
That  one  can  do  what  others  can  not  do. 
This  is  no  law  of  mine — throughout  the  realm 
Of  nature,  on  the  sky,  upon  the  earth. 
Uncommon  strength  and  talent  vault  the  bounds 
By  which  the  mean,  the  weak  are  hedged  around. 
As  goes  the  radiant  comet's  flaming  path 
Athwart  the  planets'  even  orbits, — so 
A  great  mind  will  not  brook  the  narrow  lists 
Of  every  day's  constraint  and  common  usage. 

Bradburn. 
This  is  quite  true,  but  tell  :  what  mind  is  great  ? 
Is  he,  who  mocking  and  despising  all 
That  is  esteemed  as  venerable  and  holy, 
Lays  his  bold  hand  on  mankind's  choicest  treasures 
And  desecrates  its  feelings'  sanctuary  ? 
Can  he  be  great,  who,  like  a  tempest-blast. 
Draws  his  ambition's  chariot  o'er  the  nations, 


140  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

And  smites  them  with  his  passion's  sceptred  staff? 
Or  is  it  he,  who,  like  a  vernal  sun, 
Emerges  from  the  dawn  of  human  kind, 
And,  rising  higher,  clears  away  the  vapors 
Of  prejudice  and  error  that  oppress  it, 
By  his  example's  genial  warmth  and  light ; 
And  when  at  last  he  sets,  forever  leaves 
His  radiant  memory's  blissful  evening-glow 
Upon  the  sky  of  human  history  ? 

Santa  Anna. 
These  are  chimeras;  strength  and  force  alone 
Improve  mankind;  what  higher  names  than  those 
Of  Alexander,  Caesar  and  Napoleon  ? 
Bradburn. 

There  is  one  higher  still,  the  name  of  one 
Who  steadfast,  hopeful  in  the  greatest  trials, 
Achieved  his  country's  freedom  by  his  sword. 
And  having  sheathed  it,  rendered  up  his  power 
In  spite  of  tempting  offers  and  requests. 
But  never  ceased  by  sacrificing  service 
And  true  advice  to  found  his  country's  welfare  : 
The  first  in  War — in  Peace — and  in  the  hearts 
Of  all  his  countrymen — George  Washington, 

Santa  Anna. 

{^Stammering  with  embarrassment.^ 

George  Washington  ! — Ha,  ha  ! — George  Washington  ! 

He  is — he  was — {Abruptly.^  Cos,  answer  thou  for  me  ! 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO,  I4I 

Cos. 
Forgive,  I  listed  not. 

Santa  Anna. 

Then  thou,  Castrillon  ! 

Castrillon. 
I  know  but  little  of  his  history. 

Santa  Anna. 
[  With  determination^ 
The  better  a  reply  /  have  to  give. 

\He  taps  the  bell  on  the  table.     Enters  Almonte  with  four 
soldiers^ 

Almonte. 
Arrest  this  man  I 

Bradburn. 

For  what  ?     I  pray  thee,  tell  ! 

Almonte. 
For  treason,  Bradburn,  and  disloyalty  ! 
So  list:   \Reads?[  Whereas  in  eighteen  thirty-two 
The  Fort  of  Anahuac  without  cause, 
Was  treacherously  surrendered  to  the  foe 
By  its  commander.  Colonel  Bradburn  :  Therefore 
You  are  herewith  empowered  to  arrest 
Said  Bradburn  and  to  hold  in  durance  vile 
His  person  till  adjudged  by  martial  court. 


142  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Bradburn. 
\Cahnly^ 
That  charge  is  false.     What  judge  has  signed  the  war- 
rant ? 

Santa  Anna. 
That  charge  is  true:  thy  lips,  thy  words  refute 
The  protestations  of  thy  innocence. 

[  With  scornful  mockery^ 
It  pains  me  deeply  to  behold  a  schemer 
Of  thy  perfection  overmatched,  but  then  : 
A  novice  will  at  times  outwit  a  master. 

Bradburn. 

\I)efiantly^ 
Now,  tyrant !     I  discern  thy  perfidy, 
Thy  tiger-heart,  that  prompted  thee  to  have 
Thy  game  with  me,  whom  long  ago  thou  hadst 
Marked  out  for  victim  of  thy  cruelty. 
Well  I  deserve  my  fate,  for  I  was  warned. 

Santa  Anna. 
\As  above. ^ 

Thou  seest  that  now  ;  we,  too,  though  long  ago, 
Saw  through  thy  mask,  saw  thy  designs  at  treason. 
Saw  every  step  of  thine. 

{^Stepping  close  before  Bradburn^  with  a  sneer.'] 
Who  saw  the  best  ? 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO,  143 

Bradburn. 
[  With  dignity  ?[ 
You  saw,  because  you  so  designed  to  see  ! 
Still  you  saw  wrong  !     Although  my  inmost  feelings 
Long  since  rebelled  against  your  tyranny, 
My  wicked  Will  enforced  my  hand  and  reason 
Into  your  service  with  imperious  lash. 
For  thirteen  years  they  served  you  faithfully; 
For  thirteen  years  until  this  very  day 
They  have  unwaveringly  sustained  your  cause; 
For  thirteen  years  they  fought  your  outward  battles. 
Yet  none  of  you  beheld  my  inward  feuds,— 
How  every  day  anew  my  Heart  arose 
Against  my  WilFs  tyrannical  oppression. 
How  every  day  it  bleedingly  succumbed, 
And  groaned  and  ached  with  sorrow  and  despair. 

{^Triumphantly.^ 
To-day  ! — and  not  until  to-day, — my  Heart 
Has  conquered,  and  from  its  joyful  shrine, 
Comes  up  the  shout  of  Victory  and  Triumph. 
Roused  by  the  sight  of  genuine  glorious  manhood. 
Inspired  by  the  thrill  of  heroism. 
Enchanted  by  the  words  of  truth  that  came 
From  the  defenders  of  the  Alamo, 
My  heart  arose,  threw  off  its  chains  and  fetters, 
And  made  me  what  I  am — 

{Striking  his  breast  with  noMe  pride ^ 


144  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

A  Man — a  Man — 
A  Man  resolved  to  stand  by  Truth  and  Right, 
A  Man  prepared  for  torture  and  for  death, 
A  Man  before  whose  open  brow  and  eye 

[  With  the  utmost  defiance ?[ 
Thou  quailest,  tremblest  in  the  height  of  power. 
To-day — though  in  thy  hands — I  am  thy  master; 
To-day — though  in  thy  bonds — I  am  thy  victor; 
To-day,  though  none  would  change  his  lot  for  mine, 
/would  not  give  my  lot  for — tyrant! — thine. 

Santa  Anna. 

\In  great  rage.^ 
Away  with  him  to  prison  and  to  chains 
And  hold  him  so,  witness  to  our  success. 
Until  at  Anahuac  we  arrive. 
So  that  the  scene  that  saw  his  first  attempt 
At  treason  also  see  his  punishment. 

Bradburn. 

[Frophetically.'] 

At  Anahuac,  sayst  thou,  Anahuac  ? 

Yes,  thou  art  right: — that  is  the  judgment  spot, 

That  is  the  place  where  will  the  voice  of  God 

With  thundering  tone  proclaim:   "  So  far,  no  farther," 

That  is  the  place  where  soon  His  hand  will  shake 

The  hour-glass  in  the  eye  of  tyranny. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  145 

Santa  Anna. 

\Ghastly pale^  frantic  with  rage?^ 
Away  with  him,  I  ordered.     He  annoys  me. 

Bradburn. 

[Conducted  from  the  tent  by  the  soldiers  and  followed  by 
Cos,  Castrillon  and  Almonte,  while  going  out,  raises 
his  arms  to  Heaven  and  calls  out  i7i  a  tone  of  heart- 
rendi?tg  despair  .♦] 

Oh,  Elsie,  Elsie  !  God  protect  thee  now  ! 

Santa  Anna. 

\Highly  disconcerted i\ 
What  means  that  fool  ? — I  understood  him  not, 
And  yet  his  words  spoiled  all  my  pleasure's  joy, 
And   thrilled   throughout   my  frame   with    shuddering 

force, 
While  his  reproach  and  his  inane  defiance 
Could  not  affect  my  sensibility. 
What  could  he  mean  ? — Pooh,  pooh,  it  was  the  rage, 
The  madness  of  discomfiture,  nought  else. 
So  let  us  go  and  see  if  our  converse 
With  her,  his  daughter,  will  succeed  the  better. 
[Taking  his  hat  and  sword,  Santa  Anna  leaves  the  tent.^ 


146  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Scene  VL 

The  Mission  of  Concepcion^  situated  near  San  Antonio. 
The  stage  represents  on  one  side  a  narroiv  corridor 
running  toward  the  rear  and  flanked  on  both  sides 
by  the  cells,  which  formerly  the  Padres  inhabited. 
In  the  rear  of  the  corridor^  where  a  narrow  hall- 
way joins  the  former  at  right  angles,  stands  an  altar 
in  a  niche.  The  front  of  the  stage  represents  a 
plainly  furnished  room,  with  a  door  leading  into  the 
corridor."^ 

A  Mexican  soldier  on  guard  paces  up  and  dcnvn  the 
corridor.  When  Santa  Anna  arrives,  he  takes  his 
station  opposite  to  the  above-mentioned  door,  and  pre- 
sents arms. 

Santa  Anna. 
Art  thou  the  sentry  o'er  the  prisoner  Travis  ? 

Soldier. 
I  am,  Your  Excellency. 
*  Plan  of  the  above. 

Front  of  the  stage. 


Door. 


u 


Door. 
—  Room. 

n  Table. 


Corridor  in  the  rear  of  the  stage. 
Altar. 


A2/ 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  I47 

Santa  Anna. 

So  tell  the  lady 
Who  now  attends  on  him,  that  I  request 
Within  this  room  a  brief  converse  with  her. 
That  done,  re-lock  the  captive's  room  and  bring 
The  keys  to  me,  in  case  I  should  desire 
An  interview  with  him ;  then  go  from  hence 
To  notify  my  aid-de-camp  Almonte, 
Forthwith  to  ope  the  fiercest  cannonade. 

\Santa  Anna  enters  the  room.  The  soldier^  turning^  un- 
locks the  door  behind  hinty  through  which  he  disap- 
pears^ 

So  I  am  rid  of  each  unpleasant  witness, 

And  the  bombardment,  now  to  be  begun. 

Appropriately  will  lend  to  my  request 

Its  force  and  eloquence.     But  hark,  she  comes. 

Scene  VII. 

£lsie,  followed  by  the  soldier,  emerges  from  the  room  the 
latter  had  entered,  and  having  crossed  the  hall-ivay, 
steps  into  the  room,  where  Santa  Anna  is  awaiting 
her.  At  a  sign  of  the  latter,  the  soldier  puts  the  keys 
upon  the  table,  standing  near  the  door,  and  this  done, 
departs  to  execute  his  General' s  order. 

Elsie. 
Your  Excellency,  no  doubt,  have  been  apprised 


I4S  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Through  General  Almonte  of  the  joy 

As  well  as  of  the  weight  of  obligation, 

Bestowed  upon  me  by  your  favor's  grace. 

Still  I  rejoice,  that  by  your  presence  here 

I  am  allowed  so  early  an  occasion 

Self  to  express  my  thankfulness,  a  pleasure 

Which  deputies  and  interval  of  time 

Will  oft  divest  of  half  its  value's  charms. 

I  must  confess,  that  after  our  discourse, 

Revealing,  as  it  did,  the  yawning  gulf 

That  lies  between  our  innermost  convictions, 

My  hope  was  faint,  to  see  my  prayer  fulfilled. 

Diversity  of  views  too  oft  engenders 

In  e'en  the  best,  aversion  of  the  heart. 

It  is  the  mark  of  generosity. 

Of  highest  liberality  to  keep 

The  sentiments  of  heart  and  mind  apart 

And  to  accord  its  due  to  each  of  them. 

Therefore  allow  me  now  to  reinforce 

The  weak  expression  of  my  thankfulness 

By  the  apology  for  my  mistake. 

Santa  Anna. 

As  oft  a  flattering  gift  will  honor  more 

The  donor's  heart  which  swells  with  gratitude, 

Unselfish,  freely  given,  than  the  receiver's. 

Whose  merit  after  all  is  doubtful, — so 

The  praise,  Miss  Bradburn,  you  conferred  on  me 


THE  FALL  OF  TILE  ALAMO,  149 

Bears  witness  less  to  my  deserving  claim 
Than  to  the  innate  kindness  oi your  heart. 
How  void  of  every  good,  how  selfish  then 
Must  be  the  man  on  whom  such  heart  bestowed 
Its  highest  prize,  its  love,  but  whose  conceit 
— As  lightly  as  he  would  a  worthless  pebble, — 
Prompts  him  to  cast  aside  a  costly  jewel, 
For  which  the  greatest  king  would  envy  him. 

Elsie. 

No  doubt,  't  is  Travis  whom  your  speech  points  out, 

And  who,  as  from  your  hints  I  may  infer, 

Has  with  contempt  flung  back,  from  where  it  came, 

The  shameless  proposition  to  surrender 

The  Alamo.     Grant  me  to  say,  that  even. 

Before  my  father  started  for  the  fort, 

I  prophesied  his  mission's  uselessness. 

As  Travis  never,  never  would  surrender. 

Santa  Anna. 

It  is  not  this  alone  what  he  refused. 

Though  chiefly  meant  for  our  Republic's  good. 

My  offer's  liberality  designed 

No  lessj^^//r  welfare  dcc\Ayour  happiness, 

Since  through  your  father  I  held  out  to  him 

Your  hand,  together  with  a  princely  dower. 

My  honest  counsels  wrecked  against  his  pride 

And  stubborn  will.     'T  is  plain,  he  loves  you  not 


150  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Elsie. 
Your  well-meant  kindness  and  concern  for  me 
Bring  me  more  deeply  still  into  your  debt, 
Although  I  cannot  help  confess  to  you  : 
If  Travis  had  availed  him  of  your  offer, 
Had  proven  a  traitor  to  his  country's  hopes, 
Your  reckoning  had  been  made  without  a  host, 
Since  my  consent  you  never  would  have  gained. 
But  why  converse  of  things  impossible, 
As  Travis  never  will  disgrace  him  so  ? 
His  very  love  for  me,  inseparably 
Blent  with  his  honor  and  his  zeal  for  freedom. 
Has  caused  him  to  reject  your  proffered  terms. 
So  blame  him  not.     Though  nothing  can  enhance 
My  love  for  him,  his  present  fortitude 

\Fervidly^^ 
Nigh  tempts  me  to  adore  him  like  a  god. 

Santa  Anna. 

\^Aside?^ 
Our  first  assault,  I  see,  has  been  repulsed, 
The  better  then  our  second  may  succeed. 

\At  this  moment  the  dull  reports  of  cannon^  indicating  the 
commencement  of  the  bombardment^  are  heard  in  the 
distance.     Elsie  becomes  prof  oundly  excited, 

[Aloud.] 

Hear  you  those  guns?  they  mean  your  lover's  death, 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  15  I 

The  overthrow  of  all  your  earthly  hopes  ; 
For  hardly  can  the  forteress  long  resist 
Our  cannon-balls'  persuasive  arguments. 
And  still,  Miss  Bradburn,  still  it  lies  with  you, 
By  one,  one  single  utterance  of  your  lips 
To  hush  those  deadly  thunders  into  silence, 
And  vouchsafe  all  the  benefits  of  life 
To  the  defenders  of  the  Alamo. 

Elsie. 
A  word  from  me  }     Oh,  tell !  how  I  can  save  them  ? 

Santa  Anna. 

I  am  informed,  you  know  a  hidden  way, 

— Yes,  yes,  you  know, — I  read  it  in  your  eye — 

That  underground  leads  to  the  Alamo. 

Elsie. 
\Nobly?^ 

Has  Santa  Anna's  height  and  grandeur  stooped 
To  low  and  despicable  spionage, 
Then  I,  weak  woman  as  I  am,  will  not 
Descend  to  falsehood — Yes,  I  know  the  way. 

Santa  Anna. 

For  reasons  of  the  State  and  Strategy 
Man  oft  is  forced  to  condescend  to  means 
He  loathes  to  employ  in  private  life. 


152  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Elsie. 
Heaven  then  forefend  to  be  a  man  of  State. 

Santa  Anna. 

To  save  the  terrors  of  the  cannonade, 

The  bloodshed  of  the  storm,  the  loss  of  time, 

We  must  possess  your  secret.     To  reward 

Your  revelation,  I  agree  to  grant 

The  self-same  terms  and  offers  of  surrender 

As  hitherto  I  offered  to  the  rebels. 

Madmen  they  were,  if  seeing  them  astride 

On  a  volcano's  brink,  whose  fiery  womb 

Is  pregnant  with  the  threats  of  instant  death. 

They  still  persisted  to  reject  my  offer. 

Elsie. 

You  are  deceived ;  no  form,  no  garb  of  death, 

Save  that  of  shame,  has  terrors  for  the  brave. 

But  why  again  discuss  a  likelihood 

Whose  call  to  life  my  stout  resolve  precludes  ? 

You  ask  me  to  reveal  the  hidden  way : 

My  only  answer  is  :  I  never  shall, 

Santa  Anna. 

Not  even  to  redeem  your  lover's  life  1 

Elsie. 

Not  even  to  redeem  my  lover's  life. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  I  53 

Santa  Anna. 

\^Aside?^ 
The  second  time  my  scheme  has  failed,  but  wait  : 
I  have  some  better  cards  still  in  reserve. 

{Aloud?^ 
Misfortunes  hunt  in  company — so  says 
The  proverb,  Lady  Bradburn;  hence  defend 
Your*mind  with  fortitude — 

Elsie. 

[Interrupting  him^ 
What  must  I  hear  ? 
Santa  Anna. 

[Continuing  his  speech^ 
And  let  not  rest  your  undeserved  displeasure 
On  the  unwilling  bearer  of  the  news. 

Elsie. 
Oh,  pray  !  relieve  me  of  my  dread  suspense. 

Santa  Anna. 
So  hear  !     By  orders  sent  from  Mexico, 
On  evidence  obtained  I  know  not  how. 
Your  father  stands  committed  to  arrest, 
Arraigned  for  treason  and  disloyalty. 

Elsie. 
That  charge  is  false — false  as  a  gem  of  paste. 
No  subject  was  so  truly,  ah  !  so  blindly 


154  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Devoted  to  the  service  of  your  State. 
Oh,  father  !  why,  why  wouldst  thou  not  receive 
Thy  daughter's  warning  voice,  her  fervid  prayer, 
Three  years,  ah,  e'en  three  hours  ago  ?     Now  lies 
The  glorious  city  of  thy  golden  dreams 
Invaded,  conquered,  pillaged  and  destroyed, 
While  I,  thy  daughter,  must,  Cassandra-like, 
Roam  wailingly  the  ruins  of  thy  Troy. 

Santa  Anna. 

I  self  am  bound  to  say,  that  hitherto 

My  credence  in  your  father's  loyalty 

Has  been  as  firm  as  your  belief ;  and  loath 

To  do  him  wrong,  I  have  delayed  the  order 

For  his  arrest,  till  when  on  his  return 

A  while  ago  his  words,  ah!  proved  too  well 

Of  his  conversion  to  the  rebel-cause. 

So  openly  he  spake  in  its  behalf. 

Elsie. 
\_Suddenly  transgressing  from  deepest  despair  to  highest 

joy.] 
He  has  ?     My  father  has  ?     Deceive  me  not ! 
He  has  defended  Freedom's  rights,  you  say  ? 

Santa  Anna. 
No  rebel  steeped  in  disaffection's  venom 
Could  have  pronounced  a  more  seditious  speech 
To  shock  our  outraged  ears,  than  he  ! 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  I  55 

Elsie. 
[  With  great  fervor^ 

Oh,  joy  ! 
Oh,  sunny  glimpse  upon  my  mistwrapt  sky  ! 
Oh,  star  of  hope  amid  my  woeful  night ! 
Faint  though  thou  be,  I  bless  thy  welcome  light  ! 

Santa  Anna. 


My  game — I  fear  me — has  gone  wrong  again. 


[Aside,'] 
[A/oud.] 


Our  laws  'gainst  treason  are  severe  and  harsh, 

And  one  important  service  can  alone 

Unfasten  Colonel  Bradburn's  prison-door, 

If  would  his  daughter's  love,  as  duty-bound. 

Off-set  her  father's  clearly-proven  guilt 

By  parting  with  her  secret's  treasured  knowledge. 

Elsie. 

And  she  will  not — not — not  !  though  all  of  you, 

Though  all  the  world  hissed  her  with  cries  of  shame, 

E'en  though  her  father,  struggling  on  his  knees. 

Craved  from  her  lips  the  mercy  of  his  life. 

A  thousand  years  I  gladly  would  endure 

— Could  it  be  done — for  him  the  dungeon's  curse, 

A  thousand  times  I  fain  would  undergo 

For  him  the  pangs  of  death;  but  never  shall 

My  country's  weal  and  woe  be  jeopardized 


IS6    .  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO, 

To  remedy  his  sad  mistake.     Therefore 

I  pray,  forbear  to  tempt  me  more  ;  my  choice 

Is  made  :  my  country's  fate  before  my  father's. 

Santa  Anna. 

[Aside.] 
That  trump  is  gone!  now  for  my  fourth  and  last. 

[A/oud.] 
Miss  Bradburn!  all  to  whom  I  have  referred, 
Although  endeared  to  you  by  Nature's  bonds 
Or  choice  of  love,  are  others  than  yourself. 
But  when  you  now  arrive  to  contemplate 
Your  own  forlorn  and  unsafe  station  here. 
How  you,  without  protectors,  without  friends, 
A  self-confessed  enemy  of  ours, 
Are  compassed  round  by  strangers  and  by  foes, — 
Will  you  then  not  take  pity  on  yourself.? 

Elsie. 
What  I  have  prized  and  cherished  most  of  all, 
My  father,  lover  and  my  native  land, 
Already  are  or  soon  will  be  your  prey. 
What  else  on  earth  is  left  to  me  ?     My  life  ? 
Oh,  take  it  from  me,  and  my  dying  breath 
Shall  thank  the  hand  that  rid  me  of  its  burden. 

Santa  Anna. 
Is  e'en  in  peace  a  lonely  woman's  fate 
Exposed  to  danger,  how  the  more  in  war  ? 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  157 

Whose  fiery  breath  fans  every  passion's  flame, 

Whose  very  spirit  fosters  violence. 

Where  lends  the  name  of  foe  a  welcome  pretext 

To  every  crime,  to  robbery  and  rape, 

Where  oft  the  reins  of  rigid  discipline 

Must  purposely  be  slackened  to  incite 

The  animal  propensities  of  man, — 

A  woman,  void  of  every  guardian's  care, 

A  woman,  known  to  be  an  enemy, 

Inevitably  must  fall  a  luckless  victim 

To  wicked  lust — 

Elsie. 
\Falls  on  her  knees ^  and  imploringly  holds  up  her  hands J\ 

Oh,  spare  my  womanhood  ! 
Santa  Anna. 

\Continuing  his  speech^ 
And  be  the  abject  property  of  all ! 

Elsie. 

\^Struggli?Tg  on  her  knees^ 
Knave  !  Fiend  !  now  first  thou  stand'st  revealed  to  me 
In  thy  true  light  !     Hast  thou  no  fear  of  Heaven, 
Of  retribution  in  the  Life  hereafter  ? 

Santa  Anna. 
\^Sneeringly^ 
That  knave,  that  fiend  rejoices  in  his  power, 
And  mocks  the  scorn  of  idle  impotence, 


158  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

The  more  so,  as  his  conscience  fain  acquits  him 
Of  guilt  incurred  for  purposes  of  State. 
But,  Lady  Bradburn,  are  you  ready  now 
Your  secret  to  reveal  ? 

Elsie. 

[  Who  all  this  time  has  been  lying  as  in  a  swoon?^ 

\Faintly^  I  will,  I  will  ! 

Santa  Anna. 

That  is  a  word  as  pleases  me  to  hear, 

And  proves  that  Reason,  from  her  seat  dethroned 

By  momentary  self-forgetfulness 

In  visionary  illusions,  has  resumed 

Her  wonted  place  and  wields  again  her  power; 

To  tell  the  truth,  it  is  what  I  expected 

When  I  came  hither,  for  I  know  too  well 

The  practical  and  innate  common-sense 

Of  all  that  hail  from  the  United  States. 

\He  bows  to  lift  Elsie  tip.  She^  in  the  act  of  risings  with 
a  quick  move^  draws  the  sword-blade  from  Santa 
Anna's  scabbard^  and  raises  it  on  high^  while  Santa 
Anna^  covering  his  eyes  with  his  handsy  reels  back  in 
utter  dismay?^ 

Elsie. 

[With  the   utmost  contempt?^     Thou    knowesty    tyrant? 
[Triumphantly^     No,  thou  knowest  not  ! 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  I  59 

How  e'en  the  tiny  worm  is  given  a  sting 
For  sore  distress,  a  weapon  of  defence, 
Which,  weak  and  harmless  though  it  even  be, 
Kind  Nature's  hand,  protectress  of  us  all. 
Will  help  him  aim  and  guide  with  deadly  dart 
'Gainst  the  Achilles-heel  of  his  tormentor — 

\As  above^ 

Thou  knowest,  tyrant  ?     No,  thou  knowest  not, 

How  Faith  and  lamb-like  Patience  meekly  bow 

To  every  hardship,  every  sacrifice. 

Enduring  pangs  of  body  and  of  soul. 

But  also  rise  with  more  than  giant's  strength, 

With  all-regardless,  all-renouncing  power, 

When,  outraged  in  their  holy  sanctuary. 

Their  feelings  blend  in  one  impassionate  flame — 

[As  above^ 
Thou  knowest,  tyrant  ?     No,  thou  knowest  not, 
How  woman,  tender  woman,  under  tears, 
Shed  in  her  closet's  silence,  under  prayers, 
O'erheard  by  none  save  God,  will  long  defer 
To  break  the  hallowed  peace  of  her  reserve, 
To  lay  her  bosom's  tender  feelings  ope 
To  chilly  blasts  of  worldly  sneer  and  scorn, 
But  when  at  last  confronted  by  the  choice. 
The  fiendish  choice,  'twixt  virtue  and  disgrace, 
Will  fling  aside  the  fetters  of  her  doubts, 
Shake  off  the  shackles  of  her  self-restraint, 


l6o  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO, 

And  like  a  lioness,  of  her  off-spring  robbed, 
Unheeding  wounds  and  death,  obey  alone 
The  holy  law  of  Nature  :  Self-defence  ! 

[  With  sublimity. "l 
All  this  thou  knowest  ;/<?/, — wilt  never  know, 
As  not  for  thee  this  wisdom's  fountains  flow, 
As  not  for  thee  this  comfort's  breezes  blow. 
As  not  for  thee  these  blessings  bloom  and  grow. 
A  lonesome,  arid  desert  is  thy  breast, 
Whom  parching,  withering  fervors  keep  opprest. 
Whom  poisonous  winds,  fierce  hurricanes  infest, 
Whom  scares  the  mocking  mirage  from  its  rest. 
The  pleasing  change  of  hue  and  sound  and  light 
Whose  seasons  make  the  pious  heart's  delight, 
Refreshes  not  thy  passion's  dreary  sight, — 
Thy  only  change  comes  through  the  Earthquake's 

might ! 
Yea!  tremble,  man!  thy  earthquake  is  at  hand, 
When  outraged  Nature,  rising  fierce  and  grand, 
W^ith  one  accord  will  wreck  what  thou  hast  planned, 
And  wipe  thy  labors'  vestige  from  the  land! 
All  save  thy  name!  that,  that  alone  shall  last, 
And  like  a  stranded  vessel's  towering  mast. 
Shall  overtop  the  billows  of  the  Past, 
A  warning  voice  'gainst  wild  Ambition's  blast. 
[^Taking  the  keys  from  the  table  ^  Elsie  ^  Santa  Annas  sword 

in  hand,  leaves  the  room^  which  she  locks  behind  her. 

Crossing  the  corridor^  she  unlocks  the  room  in  which 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  l6l 

James  Travis  lies^  and  standing  at  the  threshold^  calls 
out  to  him  ;] 

Awake,  James"  Travis!  rise  and  follow  me! 

My  hand  shall  guide  thy  steps  to  liberty! 

[James  Travis^  wearing  still  the  bandages  round  his 
head^  comes  from  his  room  and  stands  like  one  over- 
come by  a  trance^ 

James  Travis. 

Angel!  that  soothed  my  fever's  agony, 

Where'er  thou  leadest  me,  I  follow  thee! 

[  While  Elsie  a7id  James  Travis  are  proceeding  to  the 
rear  of  the  corridor^  Santa  Anna^  hitherto  lost  in  a 
faint  stupor^  starts  for  the  door,  which  he  tries  in  vain 
to  force  open?[ 

Santa  Anna. 
[  With  violence?^ 
Confound   these   monks  !  what  they  have  built,  with- 
stands 
The  wear  of  times  and  strength  of  stoutest  hands. 
\^While  Santa  Anna,  in  the  meantime,  looks  for  another 
way  of  egress,  Elsie  and  J.  Travis  reach  the  altar  in 
the  back-ground  of  the  corridor.     Standing  behind  //,] 

Elsie. 

\Calls  out  .•] 
Here  is  the  entrance  to  the  corridor 
That  leads  the  way  to  Freedom's  hallowed  shore. 


1 62  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Father!  forgive  me,  if  I  leave  thee  now, 

My  own  defence  absolves  me  from  my  vow. 

My  sole  protection  now  lies, — where  I  go, — 

With  William  Travis  in  the  Alamo. 

^Having  raised  the  altar-cloth^  Elsie  and  James  Travis 
disappear  beneath  it,  Santa  Anna^  finding  his^ 
efforts  unavailing^  resigns  himself  to  his  fate^ 

Santa  Anna. 

Curse,  curse  on  every  mercy-tempered  deed ; 
It  carries  in  itself  its  failure's  seed  ! 
Curse,  curse  on  each  concession  to  regards 
Of  sex  and  worldly  usage;  it  discards 
Half  of  the  spirit's  energy  and  power. 
And  lowers  the  bold  to  creatures  of  the  hour. 
If  thou  must  be  a  devil,  be  it  whole, 
Or  else  give  up  thy  aspiration's  goal. 
But  list!  a  step  !  it  is  the  sentinel! 

[Knocking  against  the  door,  he  calls  aloud  :\ 
Quick!  ope  the  door,  unlock  my  prison-cell! 

[The  soldier  is  seen  cotning  through  the  corridor^ 
Haste,  haste  thee,  man!  thy  blood,  thy  life  shall  pay 
For  every  moment  lost  through  thy  delay! 
[  The  soldier  takes  the  keys  from  the  door  where  Elsie  had 

left  them  and  unlocks  the  room  in  which  Santa  Anna 

is.     The  latter  exclaims  eagerly  ;] 
Where  are  they,  speak  } 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  1 63 

Soldier. 

Whom  mean  Your  Excellency  ? 
Santa  Anna. 
The  girl! — thy  prisoner! — they  are  gone  and  free. 

Soldier. 
None,  none  I  saw. 

Santa  Anna. 

Then  look  and  search  about, 
While  I  arouse  the  camp  entire  to  scout 
All  o'er  the  neighborhood  with  man  and  hound; 
The  fugitives! — they  must,  they  must  be  found! 
\^Santa  Anna  starts  to  go^  slowly  followed  by  the  soldier^ 
Soldier. 

Your  Excellency  have  left  your  sword  behind; 
Shall  I  return  to  find  it  ? 

Santa  Anna. 

Never  mind. 
\Suddenly  turning  and  collaring  the  soldier  with  frantic 

rage?[ 
Rogue  !  Knave  !  Choke  down  into  thy  throat  the  word 
Thou  spakest  just  !  for  in  it  I  have  heard 
The  sneers  of  ages  and  the  scoffing  voice 
Of  generations,  as  their  hearts  rejoice 
O'er  my  defeat !  \Roaring^  Hast  heard  what  I  have 
said  ? 


164  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO, 

Soldier. 

\Gasping  for  breath?^ 
Yes,  yes  ! 

\^Santa  Anna  unloosens  his  grasp  and  goes  away^ 
His  Excellency  has  sure  gone  mad  ! 

\_Exit  t  oldier^ 

Scene  VIII. 

The  Chapel  of  the  Alaino^  darkened  hut  ilhcminated  from 
without  by  the  glare  of  the  rockets^  indicating  the 
bombardment.  The  divine  service^  held  there  for  the 
last  ti?ne,  is  Just  being  concluded  by  the  soldiers,  whoy 
lying  071  their  knees^  intune  the 

PRAYER   BEFORE   BATTLE.* 

I. 

Forsake  me  not !  when  shadows  lie  around  me, 

When  Night  and  Darkness  everywhere  hold  bound  me, 

When  peril's  gloom  has  fallen  to  my  lot : 

Thou  Fount  of  Light  !    Forsake,  forsake  me  not ! 

Forsake  me  not  I  when  tempest-clouds  assemble, 
And  cause  the  ground  beneath  my  feet  to  tremble, 
When  round  me  raves  the  battle  fierce  and  hot : 
Offspring  of  Peace  !  Forsake,  forsake  me  not ! 

*  For  the  tune  of  this  Hymn  see  page  245. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  165 

3. 

Forsake  me  not !  when  thunders  rumble  o'er  me, 
When  lightnings  send  their  quivering  darts  to  gore  me, 
When  round  me  hiss  the  bolts  of  shell  and  shot  : 
Thou  Haven  of  Rest  !  Forsake^  foi-sake  me  fioti 

4. 
Forsake  me  not !    Oh,  God  of  my  abidance, 
Into  Thine  hand,  child-like,  I  trust  my  guidance, 
When  smit  to  death,  I  lie  on  dreary  spot: 
God  of  my  Hope  !  Forsake^  forsake  me  not ! 
[  The  hymn  having  been  concluded^  there  reigns  a  profound 
silence  for  a  brief  time,  durifig  which  the  soldiers, 
still  on  their  knees,  are  absoi^bed  in  prayer.     Then 
the  meeting  breaks  up.     Travis  and  Crockett  come  to 
the  foreground,  where  Bowie  lies  on  a  couch,  while 
the  volunteers  take  leave  from  each  other,  or  look 
after  their  arms^ 

Bowie. 
What  are  thy  dispositions  for  the  storm? 

Travis. 

Alas  !  they  are  but  few  !     The  bayonet 
Remains  our  last  resort,  since  our  supply 
Of  lead  and  iron,  wherewith  we  might  perhaps 
Still  have  repelled  the  enemy's  assault. 
Has  been  exhausted  in  the  fort's  defence. 
The  powder's  store  alone  has  still  remained 


1 66  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

A  Steady  friend  in  our  misfortunes  :  this 
Ignited  by  thine  hand,  who  canst  not  join 
Our  last  exploit,  shall  light  our  way  to  heaven. 

Bowie. 
Thanks,  Travis  !  that  thy  tender  thoughtfulness 
Assigned  to  me,  disabled  as  I  am, 
This  office  in  the  Alamo's  defence. 

Travis. 
By  my  command  the  channels  have  been  laid 
Through  which  the  fiery  element  shall  crawl 
AVith  lightning's  speed,  and  leave  no  stone  unturned; 
None  save  this  chapel !     Towering  o'er  the  ruins, 
It  be  the  likeness  of  our  destiny, 
That  testifies  with  silent  eloquence: 
As  it  survives  the  Alamo's  debris. 
So  shall  our  fame  outlive  our  overthrow. 

\Enters  Major  Evans^ 

Evans. 
The  Alamo  lies  open  to  the  foe  : 
The  northern  side  has  fallen,  and  the  eastern  gate 
Is  swaying  more  and  more  with  every  shot. 
Our  faithful  walls,  which  long  withstood,  at  last 
Have  bowed  their  heads  and  sunk  as  heroes  sink. 
To  us  is  left  to  follow  their  example. 

Travis. 
Yes,  valiant  friend  !  that  is  what  we  shall  do. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO,  1 67 

So  soon  I  have  addressed  our  men  once  more, 
Thou,  Crockett,  wilt  conduct  them  hence,  while  I 
Confer  a  while  with  Bowie  yet  and  Smith. 

\_Turning  to  the  men^  who  fall  into  order^  he  addresses 
them  ;] 

The  hour  has  dawned  on  us,  my  faithful  comrades, 

When  we  must  stride  to  our  last  earthly  task. 

Our  walls  have  sunk  that  spread  their  shielding  arms 

Around  this  sanctuary  of  Liberty. 

Shall  then  her  sacred  fane  lie  ope  and  bare 

To  the  profaning  hand  of  Tyranny  ? 

No,  no  !  as  we  have  sworn,  so  let  our  lives 

Be  Freedom's  bulwark.  Freedom's  forteress. 

Whose  fosse  our  opened  veins  shall  fill  with  blood, 

Whose  circling  ramparts  shall  our  bodies  link, 

Whose  garrison  shall  be  our  fearless  hearts. 

Yet  ere  we  leave  this  hallowed  chapel-shrine, 

Whose  walls  alone  have  heard  our  vows  and  prayers, 

Whose  eyes  alone  have  seen  our  gallant  deeds. 

Let  us  embody  with  its  time-worn  shrine 

The  record  of  our  joyful  sacrifice. 

Of  our  devotion  to  the  cause  we  cherish, — 

Yet  not  by  writ  or  perishable  stones. 

Or  any  signs,  that  may  the  hand  of  Time 

Efface  or  crumble;  Immortality 

Can  only  be  adorned  by  things  spiritual. 

As  longest  in  our  memory  abides 


1 68  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

The  last  word  from  some  dear  departing  friend, 

So  leave  as  keepsake  to  these  chapel-walls, 

That  hitherto  so  kindly  sheltered  us, 

Your  song  whereby  they  may  remember  you. 

\He  henceforth  speaks  with  a  deep  inspiration^  which^  ever 

rising^  culminates  in  his  last  word ;] 
Here  it  will  linger,  spirit  of  this  place, 
Wandering  and  whispering  through  its  alley-ways, 
A  melody,  as  when  the  vernal  breeze 
Plays  'mid  the  branches  of  the  new-leaved  trees, 
As  when  ^olian  harps,  suspended  there, 
Reecho  from  the  Westwind's  sighing  air. 
Then  oft  some  idle  passer-by,  in  wonder 
About  these  notes,  will  shake  his  head  and  ponder; 
Then  oft  some  tender  maiden,  when  she  hears 
These  whisper-sounds,  will  feel  some  pearly  tears 
Well  from  her  silken  lashes — till  one  day 
Upon  his  life's  uncertain,  checkered  way, 
A  swain  will  seat  him  there,  a  minstrel-bard. 
Scarce  knowing  what  should  here  his  feet  retard. 
His  lyre,  his  only  friend,  his  only  wealth, 
Rests  in  his  hand;  then  floats,  as  if  by  stealth, 
Our  song  around  him.     See  !  he  starts  !  he  lists  ! 
His  spirit  pierces  through  the  secret's  mists, 
His  hearing,  deaf  to  wordly  lore  and  noise. 
But  tutored  well  to  Nature's  inward  voice. 
Has  caught  our  song;  e'en  then  on  fluttering  wing 
It  trembles  o'er  his  lyre  from  string  to  string; 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO,  1 69 

Confined  no  longer  to  this  chapel-cell, 
It  rises  in  the  air,  it  breaks  its  spell. 
It  spreads  its  wings  for  ever  bolder  flight, 
To  ever  greater  height  and  deeper  light; 
Till  now, — as  swells  the  wave  from  southern  pole, 
As  thunders  through  the  airy  spaces  roll. 
As  forest-brooks  leap  o'er  their  rocky  steeps, 
As  o'er  the  plain  the  roaring  tempest  sweeps, 
So  loud,  so  wide,  so  mighty  and  so  free. 
Through  every  race,  through  every  century, 
Is  borne  our  fame  and  glory — borne  along 
Upon  the  pinions  of  our  hero-song, 
Which  from  your  lips  the  last  time  now  will  flow 
"77/^  glorious  Anthem  of  the  Alamo  I  " 
\_All present  now  intune^ 

THE  ANTHEM  OF  THE  ALAMO.* 

I. 
When  o'er  our  land  the  War-cloud  drew 
And  loudly  Freedom's  trumpet  blew. 
We  rushed  to  arms,  resolved  to  be 
A  citadel  'gainst  Tyranny: 

Hence  fear  thee  not,  dear  Texan  Land, 

Thy  safety  lies  in  trusty  hand  ; 

For  firm  will  stand  'gainst  every  foe 

Thy  Vanguard  of  the  Alamo  ! 

*  For  the  tune  of  this  Hymn  see  page  245. 


170  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

2. 

And  now  the  Tempest  sweeps  the  land 
With  bloody  sword  and  fiery  brand; 
Yet,  nought  dismayed,  the  storm  we  brave^ 
And  check  the  onslaught  of  his  wave: 
Hence  fear  thee  not,  dear  Texan  Land, 
Thy  safety  lies  in  trusty  hand  ; 
For  firm  will  stand  'gainst  every  foe 
Thy  Vanguard  of  the  Alamo  I 

3- 

Our  task  is  done  :  the  enemy's  might 
Is  crippled  by  our  gallant  fight, 
And  the  example  we  have  set 
Thy  sons  not  lightly  will  forget: 

Hence  fear  thee  not,  dear  Texan  Land, 
Thy  safety  lies  in  trusty  hand, 
E'en  though  the  foe  should  overthrow 
Thy  Vanguard  of  the  Alamo  I 

4- 
And  when — all  danger  overpast — 
Proud  Vict'ry  smiles  on  thee  at  last, 
When  laurel-twined,  young,  fair  and  strong. 
Thou  stand'st  thy  sister-states  among: 
Forget  thou  not,  dear  Texan  Land, 
The  grave-mounds  of  our  little  band. 
But  gladden  through  thy  trumpets'  blow 
Thy  Vanguard  of  the  Alamo  I 
[Curtain.] 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO,  I71 


ACT  FOURTH. 

Scene  I. 

Santa  Anna's  tent.  Santa  Anna^  asleep  on  a  couch. 
Jose  Frado,  holding  Santa  Anna's  watch  in  his 
hand,  stands  7iear  hi??i.     E7iters  Duque. 

DuQUE. 
Where  is  His  Excellency  ? 

Prado. 
\Motioning  to  Duque  to  speak  low,  and  leading  him  to  the 
corner  farthest  remote  from  Santa  Anna's  couch  .^^ 
Hush,  hush!  he  sleeps. 

Duque. 
{^Henceforth  speaking  in  whispers^ 
Then  wake  him,  for  I  must  report  to  him. 

Prado. 
Is  your  report  then  of  so  urgent  nature? 

Duque. 
It  is.     Since  twelve  o'clock  my  men  have  searched 
To  find  the  least  trace  of  the  fugitives. 
All  fruitless — as  if  wafted  in  the  air, 
As  if  engulfed  by  an  abyss  that  closed 
Immediately  its  yawning  gulf  again, 


172  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

So  trackless  they  have  vanished  out  of  sight 
And  left  us  nought  but  soreness  and  fatigue. 

Prado. 
Unlucky  news  comes  alway  soon  enough; 
Why  then  allow  its  gloomy  pinions'  beat 
To  scare  away  the  blessed  boon  of  sleep  ? 

DUQUE. 

My  men  are  ordered  to  participate 
In  the  attack  ;  they  ought  to  be  recalled 
From  fruitless  efforts  to  restore  their  strength 
For  the  assault  by  brief  repose  at  least. 
That  is  the  purport  of  my  coming  here. 

Prado. 
I  dare  not  rouse  His  Excellency  before 
The  time  he  set,  still  fifteen  minutes  hence. 
His  angry  mood,  swelled  by  the  disappointment 
Of  your  report  and  loss  of  soothing  sleep, 
Would  magnify  my  little  breach  of  order 
Into  a  crime,  whose  penalty  were  death. 

Santa  Anna. 
\Moving  restlessly  on  his  couch^  a?td  speaking  aloud  in  his 
sleep  ^^ 

Where  leadest  me  ? 

DUQUE. 

He  wakes. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  1/3 

Prado. 
No,  no,  he  dreams, 
For  he  is  wont  to  speak  aloud  in  sleep. 

Santa  Anna. 
[  With  a  hollow  voice  and  movements  of  his  body^  which 
reflect  the  horrors  of  his  dream  ^ 

What  dreary  region  hast  thou  brought  me  to  .? 

My  erring  eye  roams,  like  a  wanderer 

Who  lost  his  way,  with  painful,  insane  glance 

Across  the  desert  waste,  and  vainly  seeks 

A  house,  a  tree,  a  hill  to  rest  upon 

'Mid  this  immense  and  dread  monotony. 

The  yellow  sands,  commixed  with  glistening  gold, 

Which,  scarce  elsewhere  and  deeply  hidden,  here 

With  mockery  offers  to  the  crazed  traveler, 

Dying  with  thirst,  its  kernels  for  refreshment. 

Send  flashing  shocks  of  fever-heated  pain 

Throughout  my  frame,  as  if  below  the  ground. 

Thin  like  a  sheet,  there  lay  a  glowing  oven. 

And,  oh  !  these  sunlight-fervors  !  how  my  brain 

Reels,  boils  and  bakes  beneath  their  fiery  power ; 

How  through  my  swollen  veins  I  feel  my  blood 

Seethe  like  a  stream  of  liquid  metal  ore  ! — 

Has  come  the  Day  of  Judgment,  speak  !  my  guide  ? 

Woe,  woe  to  me !  he  left  me  here  alone 

Amid  this  desert  :  I  must  die  with  thirst. 

My  wealth,  my  might  for  one,  one  drop  of  water ! — 


174  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO, 

'T  is  all  in  vain  ! — but  no,  there,  over  there 

A  hollow  lies — a  glen — a  deep  ravine — 

There  runs  a  brook  ;  quick,  quick,  ere  burst  my  veins. 

E'en  now  I  can  behold  the  sun's  reflex 

Upon  its  waters;  onward,  ever  onward  ! — 

Ah  ! — it  is  blood, — red  blood,  red  human  blood 

Whose  purple  tide  rolls  shattered  limbs  and  skulls 

And  glaring  weapons  from  a  battle-field. 

How  they  do  toss  and  strive,  these  ghastly  bones, 

As  if  the  combat's  wrath  were  still  in  them  ! 

There  floats  a  snow-white  arm;  how  it  extends 

Its  fingers  !  ah  !  it  grasps,  it  seizes  me; 

Away  from  out  these  horrors'  sight,  away ! 

DUQUE. 

I  pray  thee,  wake  him:  e'en  to  hear  his  dream, 
To  see  him  writhe,  congeals  my  blood  with  terror. 

Prado. 
I  cannot,  will  I  not  incur  his  wrath; 
He  oft  dreams  so.     See,  he  begins  anew. 

Santa  Anna. 
\Lahoring    under    still    more    violent   cojiviilsions    than 

before.^ 
Ha  !  still  I  live  !     What  change  in  me  and  nature  ! 
Instead  of  stifling  heat,  as  erst,  now  creeps 
An  icy  chill  through  every  limb  of  mine, 
While  over  me  a  midnight-blackness  veils 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  1/5 

The  burning  sky  and  blinds  the  sunlight's  blaze. 

A  hurricane  it  is,  a  Texan  Norther: 

What  roar  of  awe  comes  from  the  giant's  mouth, 

How  toss  his  skirts,  how  writhe  his  hands  and  arms 

To  grasp  the  earth  and  me  in  his  embrace. 

A  sulphurous  scent  and  smoke  of  burning  towns 

Is  wafted  in  his  suffocating  breath. 

Only  too  true  my  fear  has  proved;  there,  there 

On  the  horizon's  marge  ascends  a  cloud, 

Which,  like  the  Milky  Way  upon  the  sky, 

And  like  the  Gulf- Stream's  current,  holds  apart 

In  hue,  velocity  and  temperature. 

Its  blood-red  tide  amid  that  jet-black  main. 

Nearer  and  nearer  swells  that  avalanche 

Its  waves  of  fiery  glare  and  gloomy  mist; 

But  woe  !  the  vapors  are  the  trailing  skirts 

Of  shadows  swimming  in  the  upper  air, 

Which,  as  they  pass  my  zenith,  more  and  more 

Assume  the  ghastly  likenesses  of  men, 

Dark-featured,  frowning,  haggard,  livid,  pale, 

Bedecked  with  gaping  wounds  and  bloody  gore. 

And  mingled  with  them  prisoners  hung  with  chains, 

Which,  going  by,  they  clang  into  my  ears. 

And  headless  figures,  warrants  in  their  hands. 

Which  savagely  they  shake  before  mine  eyes, — 

While  midway  through  the  dismal  train  and  borne 

Upon  the  pinions  of  that  flaming  stripe, 

There  sweeps  a  file  of  women,  wan  with  fear, 


i;^  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO, 

Crazed  with  despair,  with  hollow  cheeks  and  eyes, 
Babes  on  their  arms  and  children  at  their  side, 
Pointing  their  long,  thin  fingers  down  at  me. 
Oh,  oh  !  were  but  the  grim  procession  o'er  ! 

[Joyfully.'] 
It  is,  it  is  !  there  flashes  from  beneath 
The  storm-cloud's  folds  the  first  ray  of  the  sun. 
Another,  still  another.  [  With  ecstasy.^  Welcome,  Light  ! 
But  can  this  really  be  the  sun  ?     Oh,  no  ! 
[  With  horro7\^  The  bright  reflex  of  lightning-bolts  it  is, 
Which,  starting  from  an  unseen,  far-off  height, 
Grow  every  moment  more  in  glare  and  strength 
And  pierce  the  massive  curtain  of  the  storm. 
Distinct  before,  their  flashes  now  are  blent, 
And  cross  each  other's  pathways  here  and  there; 
The  thunder's  voice,  erst  by  the  tempest  drowned, 
Now  shakes  the  very  ground  by  constant  roar. 
And  nigher  still  sinks  down  the  fiery  orb 
Whence  flow  those  lightning-bolts, — their  source 
A  golden  chariot's  red-hot  wheels,  whose  spokes 
Whirl  through  the  blinding  Hght  their  fiery  rounds, 
And  from  the  chariot  wave  the  ample  robes 
Of  One  whose  form  and  face  are  veiled  from  me 
'Mid  all  the  brilliancy,  that  dims  my  sight ; 
Not  so  His  will;  for  unrolled  from  His  hand 
A  radiant  scroll  floats  downward  evermore. 
Emblazed  with  fiery  signs.     Not  yet  I  can 
D'scern  them: — Now  I  can — the  strange  inscription 


THE  FALL  OF  TLJE  ALAMO.  lyj 

Reads  :  Mene^ — Me  tie, —  Tekel — Upharsiti  I  * 

Where  have  I  heard,  where  have  I  seen  these  words  ? 

So  let  me  think  !     Think  ?  Woe  !  I  cannot  think  ; 

[  With  the  utmost  horror,  ] 
My  brain  is  dizzed  by  agony  of  dread, 
As  stands  that  igneous  ball  above  my  head, 
While  swinging  round  that  hurricane  engirds 
The  dazzling  centre  with  its  black-red  skirts, 
And  now  from  that  corona  'mid  the  skies 
A   thousand  fingers  point, — a  thousand  eyes 
Glare  down  at  me,  mute,  yet  how  eloquent ! 
But  what  is  that  ? — round  me  the  earth  is  rent 
By  unseen  hand — ah  !  it  has  come,-r-no  doubt, — 
The  earthquake  Elsie  Bradburn  spoke  about, — 
The  ground  below  me  shakes — it  opes — I  gaze. 
Oh,  horror  !  deep  into  a  fiery  blaze, — 
Its  flames  lick  up,  \he  holds  his  arm  above  him,  as  if  to 

shield  him^  and  now  from  overhead 
A  quivering  flash — I  sink — I  fall —    \^With  a  death-like 

gurgle ^^     Dead — dead  ! 
\He  falls  from  the  couch.     Duque  and  Prado  run  to  his 
assistance,  aitd  raise  him  to  a  sitting  position.     His 
eyes  stare  from  their  sockets,  his  checks  are  ghastly 
pale^ 

Prado. 
Awake,  Your  Excellency  !  't  was  but  a  dream  ! 
*  Daniel  V.  25. 


178  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Santa  Anna. 
A  dream  ?     A  phantom  ?     No  reality  ? 

[^Shaking  himself^  he  jumps  to  his  feet  ^ 
Then  Santa  Anna  is  a  man  again  ! 
Let  me  but  feel  my  blood  course  through  my  veins, 
Let  but  my  will  control  my  nerves  and  powers, 
r  And  I  defy  your  spells,  your  whispered  threats, 
Ye  shadowy  spirits  from  the  Land  of  Dreams, 
Who  like  hyenas  of  the  desert  creep 
Into  the  camp-ground  of  our  slumbering  souls, 
But  flee  dismayed  and  cowardly,  when,  roused, 
We  hold  our  reason's  fire-brand  to  your  eyes. 
What  is  the  hour  .^ 

Prado. 
Not  far  from  two. 

Santa  Anna. 

Then  go 
And  call  my  Generals.     What  wilt  thou,  Duque  ? 

\^Exit  Frado.  ] 
Duque. 

I  come  to  make  report,  that  fruitlessly 
My  men  have  searched  since  midnight  to  detect 
The  faintest  vestige  of  the  fugitives. 
Santa  Anna. 
Recall  thy  men  and  show  us,  if  they  do 
As  blood-hounds  better  than  they  did  as  pointers. 

\Exit  Duque  ^ 
So  after  all  that  girl  has  baffled  me. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  1 79 

Whom  with  impunity  no  man  has  mocked  ! 

It  serves  me  right,  since  I  let  gallantry, 

The  frailest  of  all  frailties,  turn  aside 

For  e'en  one  moment  my  established  way. 

Might  is  a  two-edged  knife;  when  used  in  earnest, 

It  wounds  two  foes; — but  when  in  play,  thyself. 

\Here  enter  Cos,  Castrillon  and  Almonte^ 
The  fugitives  have  not  been  found,  I  hear; 
Be  it  decided  then  to  storm  the  fort 
At  break  of  day,  two  hours  from  hence.     Meanwhile 
Let  for  some  time  the  cannonade  proceed 
As  the  courier  that  heralds  our  advent. 
Of  this,  thou,  Cos  !  take  charge  as  hitherto ; 
Castrillon,  thou  wilt  lead  in  the  assault, 
While  to  thy  task,  Almonte,  it  will  fall 
To  take  that  traitor  Bradburn  where  he  can 
Best  see  the  downfall  of  his  rebel-friends. 
For  battle-cry  I  chose  my  favorite  word. 
Whose  stirring  call  has  oft  accompanied 
My  banner  to  success  and  fame  :  "  Deguello  ! 
No  quarter  given !  no  mercy  asked  or  shown  !  " 
We  have  no  time  to  spare  for  guarding  captives 
For  lengthy  trials,  for  painful  executions  : 
A  prudent  man  completes  his  task  at  once. 
So,  Generals,  depart  ye  hence  and  go 
To  tell  your  gallant  men,  that  Mexico 
Expects  to-day  to  hear  the  overthrow 
And  glorious  conquest  of  the  Alamo.  {Exeunt^ 


l8o  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 


Scene   II. 

The  Chapel  of  the  Alamo.     Colonel   Wm.   Travis  and 
Chaplain  Smith  standing  near  the  altar. 

Travis. 
One,  one  more  word  !  my  last,  my  last  to  thee  ! 
Thy  post,  dear  friend,  is  at  this  holy  altar, 
Not  in  the  battle's  van.     Thou,  thou  alone, 
If  spares  the  foe  thy  life,  respects  thy  garb, 
Must  outlive  our  destruction  and  become 
The  messenger  of  our  Thermopylae  ! 

Smith. 
Oh,  Travis  !  let  me  fight  and  die  with  thee ! 

Travis. 
No,  Reverend  Sir  !   a  higher  duty  still 
More  painful,  more  exalted  far  than  ours, 
Devolves  on  thee.     Our  trial  will  be  brief  ; 
A  minute's  pang,  scarce  felt  and  we  are  gone, 
While  thine  will  be  a  task  of  life -long  grief. 
By  virtue  of  my  office  I  command  thee 
To  spare  no  pains,  fear  neither  scorn  nor  death, 
So  as  to  gain  a  Christian  sepulture 
For  our  remains  from  the  victorious  foe. 
Mark  well  the  spot  where  we  are  laid  at  rest, 
That  it  become  a  fane  of  pilgrimage 
To  grateful  and  admiring  patriots, 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  l8l 

Who,  when  the  trumpet-blast  of  victory- 
Hath  sounded  o'er  our  graves,  will  come  to  them 
With  holy  awe,  as  if  they  were  inscribed 
With  that  most  glorious  epitaph  of  old  : 
*'  Siste,  viator,  an  heroem  calcas  : 
Stop,  wand'rer,  else  thou  treadest  on  a  hero  !  ** 
And  as  none  else  but  thou  alone  wilt  be 
The  last  defender  of  the  Alamo, 
So,  too,  defend  by  writ  and  speech  our  cause 
Hereafter,  when  our  memory  is  assailed 
By  slanderous  and  infamous  detraction. 
This  my  behest  to  thee  as  thy  commander, 
To  which  as  friend  I  add  this  humble  prayer: 
So  soon  thou  canst,  to  hand  this  note  of  mine 
To  Elsie  Bradburn,  where  she  ever  be, 
To  tell  her,  that  my  bosom's  latest  throb 
Will  beat  for  her,  that  with  her  name  endeared 
Upon  my  lips,  my  soul  will  soar  to  heaven. 
Wilt,  friend,  thou  promise  to  fulfill  these  trusts  ? 

Smith. 
I  will,  I  will  !     Oh,  Travis,  what  a  parting  ! 

Travis. 
Thanks,  thanks,  my  friend  !    And  now  all  earthly  tasks 
Attended  to,  farewell,  until  we  meet 
Before  the  throne  of  God  in  Heaven  above. 
[  Travis  embraces  Smith  with  mute  emotion,     Suddeiily  he 
tears  hijnself  frojn  the  ChaplaiiUs  arms,  and  with  his 


1 82  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

head  bowed  to  the  ground^  he  speaks  in  breathless 
whispers .-] 
Hark,  hark  !     Hast  thou  not  heard  this  floor  beneath 
Some  hasting  footsteps  ? — There  they  are  again — 
A  secret  passage-way  must  He  below — 
E'en  now  the  sounds  come  nearer,  ever  nearer, — 
Are  they  the  feet  of  friends,  of  enemies  ? — 
They  come  up  here — they  mount  a  hidden  stair — 
They  raise  a  trap-door  'neath  the  altar-cloth — 
What  means  this  mystery  ?  who  can  they  be  ? 
\Motio7iing  Smith   to   the  chapel-door^   Travis  takes  his 
position  behind  the  altar ^  the  sword  in  his  right  and 
the  cocked  pistol  in  his  left,  leveling  it  at  the  altar. 
The  cloth  with  which  the  latter  is  covered  is  suddenly 
thrown  back,  a7id  from  beneath  it  Elsie  and  James 
Travis  emerge.      When  Colonel  Travis  beholds  them, 
he  drops  both  sword  and  pistol,  and  %mth  outspread 
arms  rushes  into  their  embrace^ 

Scene  III. 
Colonel   Wm.    Travis — Elsie — James  Travis — Chaplain 
Smith*     The  latter   remains  standing  at  the  door, 
where  luith  mute  delight  he  overhears  the  conversation 
of  the  above. 

Col.  Wm.  Travis. 
Oh,  Elsie,  Elsie  !     Oh,  my  brother  James  ! 
How  can  it  be  ?     It  is  a  vision's  dream  ! 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  1 83 

Elsie. 

\Lying  in  his  embi^ace^ 
No,  Travis,  no  !  it  is  no  phantom's  spell. 
'T  is  I,  thy  Elsie,  rendered  back  to  thee  ! 

James  Travis. 
And  it  is  I,  *t  is  I,  thy  brother  James, 
Who  'live  and  hale  now  lies  in  thy  embrace. 

Col.  Wm.  Travis. 
Oh  !  God  is  good  and  over-merciful  ! 
Elsie. 

Yes,  Travis,  yes  !  't  is  He  whose  wondrous  hand 
Brought  us  together,  nevermore  to  part  ! 
Rememberest  thou  that  with  this  self-same  word 
Three  years  ago  I  bade  thee  trust  in  Him, 
That  He  through  night  and  darkness,  grief  and  trial, 
Would  lead  our  love  to  glorious  consummation  ? 
And  know'st  thou  still  the  subterranean  way, 
To  which  on  that  occasion  I  alluded  ? 
What  then  my  lips,  inspired  unconsciously, 
What  then  my  spirit,  childlike-unaware, 
Proclaimed  as  hope-awakening  allegory, 
Stands  realized  to-day  before  our  sight. 

Col.  Wm.  Travis. 
Oh  !  had  a  dream,  only  a  dream  presented 
Before  my  slumbering  soul  this  lovely  image, 
That  I  should  hold  you  both  in  my  embrace, 


1 84  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

I  should  have  deemed  it  all-too-fair  a  gift. 

And  now,  and  now — I  feel  your  bosoms  throb 

'Gainst  mine  in  joyful,  neighborly  response, 

I  drink  the  life-warm  ardor  of  your  kisses, 

I  hear  the  love-thrilled,  touching  tremolo 

Of  both  your  voices,  and  my  dazzled  eye 

Reads  in  your  looks  and  on  your  glowing  cheeks 

The  true  reflex  of  all  that  moves  your  hearts, 

While  impotent  to  fathom  yet  the  secret 

Of  your  arrival  here,  my  thoughts  stand  still. 

James  Travis. 

Thou  errest,  brother,  if  thou  ween'st  that  I 

Can  solve  for  thee  this  deep-mysterious  riddle. 

For  lo  !  as  sudden  as  it  dawned  on  thee. 

Inexplicable,  as  it  stands  before 

Thy  staggered  mind, — so  wondrous  and  so  strange, 

It  still  enwraps  my  own  with  dream-like  spell. — 

Three  hours  ago  I  lay  in  dizzy  sleep. 

In  which  appalling  night  and  battle-smoke 

Spread  o'er  my  feverish  soul  a  somber  sky, 

— As  dark  and  dread  as  my  impending  fate — 

While  demon-like,  uncouth,  gigantic  shapes 

With  hangman's  features  stretched  their  withered  hands 

Up,  up  to  me  with  ever  closer  grasp, — 

When  in  the  cloud- wrapt  back-ground  of  my  dream 

Appeared  a  balmy,  mellow-tinted  light. 

That  more  and  more  shed  through  the  desert  waste 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  1 85 

A  radiant  glow  and  thrilled  with  grateful  warmth 

E'en  from  afar  my  writhing,  death-chilled  heart. 

'*T  must  thus  have  been,  when  first  the  smile  of  God 

With  quickening  breath  beamed  on  chaotic  realms  ; 

Thus  it  will  be,  when  from  the  shades  of  grave 

We  first  emerge  into  our  Maker's  presence. 

And  with  that  light  there  came  a  melody 

Into  my  ear  as  of  an  angel-choir, 

So  sweet,  so  soothing  and  so  comfort-fraught, 

That,  as  at  times  we  feel  a  healing  draught 

Pervade  our  veins  with  instantaneous  cure, 

So,  so,  forthwith  these  gentle  accents  poured 

Into  my  heart  a  current  of  relief, 

That  soothed  its  pangs  and  calmed  its  agitation. 

Then,  for  a  while,  the  charming  apparition 

Withdrew  from  me,  but  as  the  setting  sun 

Behind  him  leaves  the  purple-glow  of  eve 

And  peace  serene, — my  feelings  so  remained 

Inspired  with  joy  and  radiant  hopefulness. 

While  thus  I  lay,  as  in  a  trance  enchanted, 

A  glaring  light  broke  on  my  slumb'ring  eye  ; 

A  fairy-vision  stood  my  bed  beside, 

Who  spoke  to  me  with  strength-infusing  voice  : 

*^  Awake,  James  Travis,  rise  and  follow  me  !" 

Through  long  and  vaulted  corridors  we  went, 

Until  at  last  a  frowning,  narrow  way. 

Through  which  we  passed,  meseemed  for  many  hours, 

Has  safely  brought  me  to  the  arms  of  him 


1 86  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO, 

Than  whom  none  else  I  longed  to  see  once  more. 

Admit  then,  brother,  that  my  wonderment 

Can  hardly  be  surpassed  by  ihy  surprise, 

The  more  as  I  behold  the  fair  magician 

To  whom  I  owe  my  strange  deliverance, 

Beknown  to  thee,  befriended,  yea,  related 

Through  ties  whose  sweetness  thou  alone  canst  prize. 

Col.  Wm.  Travis, 
Oh  !  had  a  stranger,  had  an  enemy 
Bestowed  on  me  the  service  to  restore 
My  brother  from  the  very  jaws  of  death, 
I  should  have  valued  all  that  I  possess 
Upon  this  world  a  poor  reward  for  him. 
And  now  it  is  through — Elsie!  thee,  that  I 
Receive  him  back,  through  thee  who  own'st  my  all. 
But  tell  me,  pray,  how  lone  and  without  aid 
Thou  hast  accomplished  this  unheard-of  venture. 

Elsie. 
Oh,  Travis  !  why  pronounce  the  fatal  word. 
Whereby  unconsciously  thou  opest  anew 
The  bleeding,  aching  wound,  that  scarce  was  sealed 
By  the  oblivion  of  a  moment's  bliss  ? 
Alas  !  as  oft  upon  my  gold-strung  harp 
My  fingers  touch  a  chord  of  highest  joy — 
I  change  one  note,  and,  ah  !  the  saddest  tone 
Conceivable  strikes  my  astounded  ear — 
So  close,  so  near  lie  side  by  side  the  strings 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  I  87 

Of  joy  and  grief  on  our  lives'  harpsichords. 

And  yet,  meseems,  't  is  better  after  all, 

That  finds  my  sorrow  in  its  utterance 

A  slight  relief,  and  in  thy  sympathy 

A  soothing  balm.     So  hear  then  my  account. 

Knowing  full  well  my  stout  fidelity 

To  Texas  and  her  cause, — suspecting,  too, 

My  father's  loyalty,  though  without  grounds. 

The  tyrant  must  have  had  us  watched  by  spies, 

Hid  near  our  tent,  to  hear  what  there  was  spoken. 

When  ere  my  father's  journey  to  this  fort 

I  made  a  new  but  vain  attempt  (alas  ! 

It  proved  the  last  !)  to  rouse  his  love  of  right. 

When  on  my  knees  I  warned  him  'gainst  his  friends 

And  told  him  of  the  hidden  passage-way 

Through  which  he  yet  could  reach  the  Port  of  Honor, 

This  our  converse  must  have  been  overheard 

And  brought  to  Santa  Anna's  ears.     Meanwhile, 

Upon  my  prayer  to  tend  thy  brother  James, 

The  tyrant — under  the  pretence  to  grant  it, 

But  in  reality  to  wrest  from  me 

Through  threats  and  force  my  secret's  dear  possession, — 

Had  me  conducted  to  thy  brother's  cot 

In  Mission  of  Concepcion.     Fine  his  plan. 

Yet  finer  God's,  who  made  the  villain's  scheme 

The  instrument  of  my  deliverance. 

For  know,  Concepcion  is  the  very  place 

Where  lies  the  entrance  to  the  hidden  way. 


1 88  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Thither  he  came,  intent  on  his.  design, 

And,  oh  !  the  terrors  of  that  dreadful  hour, 

The  ever  higher  billows  of  distress 

That  broke  upon  my  aching,  quivering  heart, 

When — brazen  like  the  statue  of  a  god 

That  hears  not,  feels  not  its  petitioner's  prayers, 

Stern  like  a  rock,  whose  plumb  and  polished  breast 

Rejects  the  drowning  sailor's  outstretched  hand — 

The  hard  man  stood  before  me  firm  and  stark, 

Resolved  to  gain  his  end  by  every  means. 

By  every  wile  of  diplomatic  art, — 

When  stroke  on  stroke  and  blow  on  blow  the  hammers 

Of  his  persuasive  reasons  fell  upon 

My  unprepared  and  unprotected  heart, — • 

When  gradually  he  reinforced  his  praise 

By  luring  bribes,  his  bribes  by  calumny. 

His  calumny  by  threats,  his  threats  by  sneers, — 

When  heeding  not  my  tears,  my  agony. 

He  staked  thy  life,  my  father's  fate,  my  honor 

Upon  the  revelation  of  my  sacred  knowledge — 

Oh  !  to  describe  this  hour's  experience 

My  utt'rance  fails  me.     Let  this  sabre  speak 

I  wrested  from  his  scabbard,  to  what  height 

Of  bleak  despair  a  woman  may  be  driven. 

\^Elsie  hands  Santa  Annas  sword  to  Col.  Travis^ 

Col.  Wm.  Travis. 

My  heart  has  ceased  its  beat  o'er  thy  account, 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  1 89 

My  thoughts  refuse  thy  trial's  depth  to  fathom, 
How,  reft  of  friends,  hedged  round  by  War  and  Foe, 
Weak  woman,  thou  stoodst  pitted  'gainst  the  Man 
Before  whose  might  nine  millions  bow.     And  still 
Thou  hast  prevailed  !     What  fortitude, 
What  lofty  height  of  virtue,  what  resolve 
Of  more  than  manly  virtue  hast  thou  shown! 
What  prizeless,  unheard  triumph  hast  thou  won! 
Before  the  radiance  of  thy  victory. 
The  martyrs  must  conceal  their  thorny  crowns. 
The  heroes  hide  the  trophies  of  their  fame, 
The  angels  selves  begrudge  thy  glory's  halo, — 
Oh,  Elsie,  Elsie  !  I  deserve  thee  not ! 

Elsie, 
Say  rather  :  I  am  worthy  now  of  thee. 
The  heroine  (if  I  am  justified 
To  call  me  so),  the  equal  hero's  bride. 

Col.  Wm.  Travis. 
His  bride?     Alas  !  the  poorest  swain  on  earth, 
The  meanest  beggar  can  afford  his  bride 
A  life,  a  fortune  he  would  deem  most  royal 
Compared  to  what  I  can  bestow  on  thee  : 
He  has  a  cot,  I  but  a  heap  of  ruins  ; 
He  owns  a  bedstead,  I  not  e'en  a  bier  ; 
His  wedding  is  made  gay  by  festive  music, 
Mine  terrible  with  hissing,  crashing  shell. 
Nought,  no.igl-t  I  have  to  give  to  thee  but  Death — 


IQO  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Death  for  thy  bans,  Death  for  tliy  bridal-dress, 
Death  for  thy  ring.  Death  for  thy  wedding-night. 

Elsie. 
And  is  not  that  more  than  a  heart  could  ask, 
Yea,  verily,  the  highest  gift  wherewith 
Heaven  can  adorn  and  crown  a  woman's  life. 
To  fight,  to  bleed,  to  die  beside  her  lover. 
In  righteous  cause  and  heavenward  rise  with  him 
Upon  the  pinions  of  a  glorious  deed. 
Upon  the  rosy  cloud  of  fame  eternal, 
'Mid  the  applause  of  both  the  Earth  and  Heaven  ? 
Or  wouldest  thou  that  I,  year  after  year. 
Pine,  languish,  waste  away  in  self-torment, 
To  join  my  hero  in  the  light  above  ? 
No,  I  will  die  with  thee,  die  at  thy  side. 

Col.  Wm.  Travis. 
No,  Elsie,  no  !  thy  pure  and  stainless  hand. 
That  knew  in  life  nought  else  but  charity. 
Must  not  by  bloodshed  be  profaned  in  death  ; 
Nor  must  thou  self  endure  the  cruelties 
Of  bloody  fray,  which  spares  nor  age  nor  sex. 
Should  I  behold  by  savage  thrust  laid  ope 
The  tender  breast,  whose  secrecy  was  mine  ? 
Or  witness  how  thy  graceful  form  is  soiled 
With  bloody  gore  or  trampled  in  the  dust  ? 
That  memory  would  haunt  me  e'en  in  heaven. 
It  must  not  be,  fain  as  I  had  thee  nigh  me, 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO,  IQI 

When  self  I  bleeding  lie  upon  the  sod. 
Choose  every  other  road  to  death  but  this. 

Elsie. 

One  only  way  of  death   I  yet  could  wish, 

Will  then  remain  for  me,  if  would  thine  hand — 

Col.  Wm.  Travis. 

\l7iterrtcpting  her  quickly^ 
Pronounce  it  not — my  heart  will  turn  to  stone. 

James  Travis. 

So  let  my  counsel  come  to  your  relief. 
The  Alamo — I  heard  thee  say, — is  mined — 

Col.  Wm.  Travis. 

Thanks,  brother,  for  thy  counsel's  timely  aid. 
The  way  is  found,  dear  Elsie,  that  avoids 
Thy  desecration  by  the  enemy's  hand. 
And  yet  assigns  to  thee  the  foremost  place 
And  office  in  the  Alamo's  defence. 

Elsie. 
Then  my  two  wishes  are  fulfilled  :  the  first 
To  be  with  thee,  when  heavenward  soars  thy  spirit; 
The  other:  to  redeem  my  father's  guilt 
And  injury  to  Freedom's  sacred  cause, 
By  graving  on  her  radiant  roll  of  honor 
(Would  it  were  his  !) — the  name  of  Elsie  Bradburn. 


192  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Col.  Wm.  Travis. 
What  say'st  thou  .?    ^'  Elsie  Bradburn  ?" — Elsie  Travis  ; 
This  and  none  else  must  henceforth  be  thy  name. 
Thy  love  gave  me  that  dearly-cherished  rights 
Thy  presence  here  makes  it  necessity  I 
As  blent  our  souls  in  one  delightful  trance, 
As  blent  our  hearts  in  one  regard  for  truth, 
As  will  our  lives  blend  in  one  glorious  death, 
So  must  hereafter  stand  our  names  entwined  ! 
William  and  Elsie  Travis  :  this  must  be 
The  appellation  of  that  double-star, 
Whose  brilliancy,  blent  inseparably. 
Will  shine  upon  the  firmament  of  fame. 

Elsie. 
Oh,  Travis  !  if  within  my  bosom's  niche 
Still  lurked  a  secret  longing  it  was  this, 
Though  I  forebore  to  make  it  known  to  thee. 
Hedged  as  thou  art,  by  obstacles  and  foes, 
I  fain  forced  back  into  my  bosom's  shrine 
The  care  for  my  repute,  than  rather  add 
More  to  the  weight  of  thy  embarrassment. 
Now,  now,  I  am  the  happiest  of  women  ! 
But,  pray,  where  is  the  hand,  that  God-ordained, 
Will  consecrate  our  wedlock's  holy  bond? 

Col.  Wm.  Travis. 
Wilt,  brother,  call  the  chaplain  from  the  door  ? 
[  While  James  Travis  goes  to  execute  his  brother  s  wish^ 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  I93 

and  while  he  and  the  Chaplain  for  a  short  time  in- 
dulge in  manifestations  of  joy  about  their   ?neeting 
again,  Colonel  Willia^n  Travis  continues,  speaking  to 
Elsie  ;] 
Our  wedding,  Elsie,  will  not  come  to  pass 
As  we,  when  seated  once  in  moonlight's  glare 
'Neath  Anahuac's  verdant  garden-bower, 
In  glowing  tints  had  pictured  to  one  another. 
Yet  though  our  fancy's  dreams  are  not  fulfilled, 
Our  wedding-day  is  not  devoid  of  charms. 
The  sparkling  tears  of  joy  within  thine  eyes 
Outshine  in  brilliancy  the  costliest  pearls 
Wherewith  thou  couldst  have  decked  thee  out  to-day; 
The  glowing  blush  upon  thy  cheeks  out-does 
*l'he  fairest  rose-bloom  which  thou  couldst  have  worn; 
While  in  solemnity  of  hour  and  place 
No  earthly  wedding  can  compete  with  ours. 

Elsie. 

And  if  on  Earth  the  picture  of  our  fancy 
Has  been  excelled  by  its  embodiment, 
How  much  more  gloriously  will  Heaven  redeem 
What  little  we  have  lost  beneath.     For  now 
The  draft  we  thought  to  hold  on  eartlily  gifts 
Has  been  exchanged  for  one  on  Heaven's  delights, 
Far  greater,  safer,  better  than  the  first. 
\Here  James  Travis  and  the   Chaplain  advance  to  the 
altar.l 


194  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Col.  Wm.  Travis. 

\Addressing  the  Chaplain^ 
Hast  list  to  our  converse  ? 

Smith. 

I  heard  it  all, 
And  praised  the  Lord,  whose  wondrous  hand  pours  out 
Such  glory  inconceivable  on  us. 
I  say  :  "  on  us  ;  "  because  we  all  alike 
Are  glorified  by  this  event,  e'en  I; 
For  now  relieved  of  one  part  of  thy  charge,     , 
I  trust  thou  wilt  revoke  thy  whole  behest, 
That  I  like  you  may  battling  die  for  freedom, 
Like  you  may  worthily  conclude  my  life. 

Col.  Wm.  Travis. 
How  could  I,  friend,  refuse  to  grant  thy  prayer, 
When  mine  is  heard  beyond  all  expectation  ? 
Hence  bless  our  union,  and  that  joyest  service 
Of  all  upon  thy  lips,  go  forth  to  death. 
God  will  take  care  of  our  remains  and  fame. 
So  let  me  then  present  thee  to  my  bride: 
From  her  own  lips  thou  knowest  who  she  is  : 
And  thine  own  heart  will  tell  thee  what  she  is. 

Elsie. 

\Addressing  the  Chaplain^ 
If  dear  forever  to  a  pious  heart 
AVill  be  the  hand,  whose  ministry  hath  hallowed 
And  crowned  its  life-time's  brightest  bond  and  day, 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  1 95 

How  sacred  must  thy  memory  be  to  me, 
Who,  like  the  Lord's  Envoy  Extraordinary, 
Appearest  here  midway  through  walls  and  foes, 
To  wreathe  my  brow  with  grace,  e'en  ere  I  die. 

Smith. 

If  I  am  so  ordained  by  God,  't  is  thou 
Who  givest  me  my  mission's  consciousness. 
As  grateful  for  the  care  bestowed  on  her, 
The  Rose  blooms  fairest  in  her  warden's  sight. 
Yet  hardly  less  delights  the  passer-by 
Through  her  sweet  loveliness  and  charming  scent. 
So  holds  as  well  a  good  and  pious  heart 
A  source  of  blessings  rich  enough  for  all. 
E'en  though  its  foremost  love  is  vowed  to  one. 
So  I,  scarce  entered  in  thy  blessings'  sphere, 
Become  a  sharer  of  their  gifts  and  dowers, 
Whose  recognition  by  my  slightest  service 
Returns  to  me  as  two-fold  benefit. 
I  owe  to  thee,  that  by  this  joyful  rite 
Of  Matrimony  I  may  end  niy  mission  ; 
I  owe  to  thee,  that  by  this  glorious  death 
Of  heroism  I  may  conclude  my  life. 

Col.  Wm.  Travis. 

Would  that  my  friends  could  all  attend  our  wedding ; 
Alas  !  the  hour's  stern  duty  bars  their  presence. 
Yet  not  unmeet  it  seems,  that  one  at  least 
Were  witness  and  partaker  of  our  joy. 


196  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO, 

Scene  IV. 

Enters  Crockett.     The  bombardment^  preceding  the  assault^ 
is  just  then  beginning. 

Crockett. 

\Remains  standing  at  the  door.^ 
Where  linger'st  thou,  Commander?     Even  now 
The  foe  begins  the  thundering  ouverture 
Wherewith  he  opes  our  tragedy's  last  act; 
He'll  not  be  slow  in  adding  the  finale. 

Col.  Wm.  Travis. 
How  long  before  we  may  expect  their  coming  ? 

Crockett, 
They  will  be  here  in  less  than  half  an  hour. 

Col.  Wm.  Travis. 
Are  all  our  men  well-stationed,  say  ? 
Crockett. 

They  are. 
Ranged  in  a  semi-circle  round  the  breach, 
And  sheltered  well  'gainst  shot  and  shell,  they  bide 
Impatiently  the  enemy's  approach. 

Col.  Wm.  Travis. 
'T  is  well,  my  friend  !     And  therefore  I  beseech  thee 
To  spare  me  still  five  minutes  of  thy  life, 
And  to  attend  my  wedding  as  my  groomsman. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  1 97 

Crockett. 

\_Adva7icl7ig  to  the  altar. ^ 
Thou  jestest,  friend — it  cannot  be — but,  ah  ! 
It  must  be  true— who  is  this  handsome  maiden  ? 

Col.  Wm.  Travis. 
'T  is  Elsie  Bradburn,  my  heroic  bride. 
Crockett. 
\Poi?7ting  in  great  surprise  at  Ja77ies  Travis ?[ 
And  who  is  this  .?  am  I  aw^ake  or  dreaming  ? 
James  Travis,  thou  ?  my  youthful,  gallant  friend, 
The  fear  for  whose  imperiled  fate  has  wrung 
The  first  right-fervid  prayer  I  e'er  in  life 
Have  uttered,  from  my  anxious  bosom's  shrine. 
But  speak  !  declare  to  me  the  riddle,  how 
Thou  hast  escaped  the  tyrant's  tiger-claws 
And  comest  here,  I  know  not,  through  the  air 
Or  from  the  ground,  albeit  we  saw  thee  not. 

James  Travis. 
Hast  ever  thou,  amid  thy  many  feats 
Of  danger,  as  I  well  surmise,  been  saved 
From  out  the  very  jaws  of  direst  death 
By  wondrous,  providential  interference, 
To  fathom  which  thy  mind  proved  impotent  1 
If  had  thy  fancy's  eye  on  such  occasion 
Attired  thy  intercessor  with  the  brightest  hues 
Of  Heaven  and  Earth,  of  Morn  and  Evening-skv, — 


I9S  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

With  all  the  highest  attributes  of  Virtue, — 
Thy  fairest  image  would  have  fallen  short 
From  this  embodiment  of  guardian-angel, 
Who  healed  my  wounds,  soothed  my  captivity, 
Defied  the  tyrant's  wrath,  and  saving  me 
From  cruel  torture  and  disgraceful  end, 
Restored  me  safely  to  my  countrymen. 
Whose  fate,  whose  death  she  is  prepared  to  share. 

Crockett. 

\B ending  his  knee  before  Elsie. ^ 
Fair  Lady  !  David  Crockett,  who  not  once 
In  all  his  life  has  bowed  to  man  or  woman. 
Here  lays  his  fame,  his  triumphs  at  thy  feet. 
Confessing  him  outdone  by  thee  in  all 
His  boldest  courage  ever  could  conceive. 
Compared  to  thy  heroic  fortitude. 
The  honor  even  to  have  sat  in  Congress 
Sinks  into  nought ;  I  shall  no  longer  boast  it. 

Col.  Wm.  Travis. 
Beside  my  brother,  has  my  gallant  bride 
A  precious  trophy  brought  with  her,  this  sabre 
Of  Santa  Anna,  wrested  from  his  side. 

Crockett. 

^Takes  the  sword  and  examines  //.] 
This  is  his  sword  ? — Oh,  glorious  prophecy. 
Whose  meaning  e'en  the  blindest  eye  can  see. 
Whose  speaking  promise  heralds  Heaven's  decree 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  1 99 

That  through  Him,  with  Him  Texas  will  be  free  ! 
For  as  this  sword,  the  mighty  tyrant's  brand, 
Was  torn  from  him  by  tender  woman's  hand, 
So  shall  his  power  wreck  'gainst  this  feeble  land, 
His  whelming  host  against  our  little  band. 

{^Sinking  on  one  knee.,  he  stretches  his  arms  upward.^ 
Oh,  Lord  !  I  pray  like  Simeon  on  my  knees  : 
Now  lettest  Thou  Thy  servant  part  in  peace, 
Since  have  mine  eyes  beheld  this  land's  release 
From  bonds  and  rise  to  Freedom's  blessed  ease. 

[He  rises. ^ 
Travis. 

Our  time  is  costly,  friends  !  for  every  moment 

Brings  nearer  us  to  our  impending  doom. 

So  let  us  wisely  use  our  time  allotted 

For  what  is  most  required  and  proceed 

To  celebrate  our  wedding-ceremony, 

Where  cannon-roar  serves  for  the  organ's  peal, 

Where  rockets  glare  instead  of  nuptial  torch, 

Where  stern-faced  Death  is  the  hymeneal  god. 

[  The  Chaplain  takes  his  position  in  front  of  the  altar 
at  the  foot  of  which  the  bridal-pair  kneel  down. 
Crockett  a?id  Janies  Travis  stand  behind  the f?i.  The 
bombardment  reaches  its  highest  force, — bomb -shell 
even  now  crashing  through  the  chapel-roof. 
Chaplain  Smith. 

With  God,  the  Father,  Son  and  Holy  Ghost  ! 

Speak,  William  Travis,  wilt  thou  take  this  woman 


200  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Unto  thy  wedded  wife,  to  live  together 
By  God's  commandment  in  the  holy  state 
Of  Matrimony  ?     Wilt  thou  love  and  comfort 
And  keep  her  in  disease  and  health,  and  leaving 
All  others,  keep  thee  unto  her  alone 
So  long  ye  both  shall  live  on  earth  ? 

Col.  Wm.  Travis. 

I  will. 
Chaplain  Smith. 

Speak,  Elsie  Bradburn  !  wilt  thou  take  this  man 

Unto  thy  wedded  husband,  to  abide 

By  God's  commandment  in  the  holy  state 

Of  Matrimony  ?     Wilt  thou  love  and  comfort 

And  keep  him  in  disease  and  health,  and  leaving 

All  others,  keep  thee  unto  him  alone 

So  long  ye  both  shall  live  ? 

Elsie. 
I  will. 
Chaplain  Smith. 

Who  giveth 
This  woman  to  be  married  to  this  man  ? 
[  The  Chaplain  receives  Elsie  at  Crockett's  hands.      Travis 
with  his  right  hand  takes  Elsie'' s  right  hand?\^ 

Col.  Wm.  Travis. 
I,  William  Travis,  take  thee,  Elsie  Bradburn, 
To  have  and  hold  thee  as  my  wedded  wife, 
From  this  day  forth,  for  better  and  for  worse, 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  20I 

For  richer  and  for  poorer,  in  disease 
And  so  in  health,  to  cherish  and  to  love  thee, 
Till  Death  do  part  us  after  God's  command. 
Whereto  I  plight  my  sacred  troth  to  thee. 
[  They  loose  their  hands.     Elsie  with  her  right  hand  now 
takes  Travis  by  his  right  hand-^ 

Elsie. 
I,  Elsie  Bradburn,  take  thee,  William  Travis, 
To  have  and  hold  thee  as  my  wedded  husband 
From  this  day  forth,  for  better  and  for  worse. 
For  richer  and  for  poorer,  in  disease 
And  health,  to  love,  obey  and  cherish  thee 
Till  death  do  part  us  after  God's  command, 
Whereto  I  plight  my  sacred  troth  to  thee. 
l^They  again  loose  their  hands.    Travis  gives  Elsie  a  ring; 

Chaplain  Smith  taking  it  from  Elsie's  hand,  delivers 

it  unto  Travis,  who  puts  it  on  Elsie's  finger ?[ 
Col.  Wm.  Travis. 
This  ring  for  token,  I  thee  wed  and  'dow  thee 
With  all  my  worldly  goods — thus  in  the  name 
Of  Father,  Son  and  Holy  Ghost,  Amen  ! 
[Chaplain  Smith  then  Joins  their  hands  together.     At  this 

very  moment  a  bomb-shell,  crashing  through  the  roof, 

explodes  on  the  floor i\ 

Chaplain  Smith. 
Whom  God  has  joined,  let  no  man  put  asunder. 
[  Then  laying  his  hands  upon  their  heads,  he  blesses  thejn  ;] 


202  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

God,  Father,  Son  and  Holy  Ghost  preserve 

And  bless  ye  both  ;  the  Lord  All-Merciful 

Look  favorably  upon  ye  and  endow 

Your  hearts  with  all  spiritual  gifts  of  grace, 

That  ye  so  live  together  in  this  life 

That  in  the  world  to  come  ye  may  attain 

Life  ever-glorious,  everlasting  !     Amen. 

[  The  bridal-pair  rise.  Enters  Major  Evans  in  great  haste.  ] 

Evans. 
The  cannonade  has  ceased  .    The  enemy 
Can  plainly  be  descried  forming  their  lines 
For  the  immediate  storm  upon  the  breach. 

\Exit  Evans 7[ 
Col.  Wm.  Travis. 
Then  I  must  be  without !     Farewell,  dear  wife. 

Crockett. 
No,  no  !  my  friend  !  this  is  against  the  rules, 
As   we   were  wont, — {correcting  himself)  as  every   one 

would  say, 
To  leave  so  soon  thy  newly-wedded  wife, 
Without  so  much  as  e'en  a  moment's  parley. 
'T  were  cruel,  't  were  inhuman,  't  were  outrageous. 
And  stood  the  foe  upon  the  breach,  we  should 
Throw  us  against  him  like  a  living  wall, 
Till  thou  hast  said  a  Christian-like  farewell 
To  her,  who  hardly  thine,  is  torn  from  thee. 
*T  is  time  yet  for  a  brief  converse;  I  self 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO,  203 

Will  tell  thee  when  thy  presence  is  required. 
Come,  Chaplain  !  come,  young  friend  !  thy  story  will 
Still  more  inspire  our  men,  when  through  their  ranks 
Runs  the  account  of  thy  deliverance. 

Col.  Wm.  Travis 
So  be  it  then  !    Thanks,  tender-hearted  friend  ! 

\Crockett,  James  Travis  and  the  Chaplain  go  without?\^ 

Scene   V. 
Wfn,  Travis  and  Elsie, 
Wm.  Travis. 
My  darling  wife  !  to  call  thee  by  this  name 
Yet  here  on  earth,  e'en  for  a  moment  only, 
And  to  behold  thy  prophecy  fulfilled, 
That  hand  in  hand  we  shall  ascend  to  Heaven, 
Where  is  the  hero  whom  this  bliss  befell  ? 

Elsie. 
Beloved  husband  !  if  this  name  endeared 
Entitles  me  to  share  thy  weal  and  woe 
On  Earth  below,  this  were  enough  of  blessing; 
But  when  by  heavenly  mercy  I  am  granted 
That  rarest  privilege  to  blend  with  thee 
My  very  destiny,  my  very  future. 
In  one  grand  moment  of  a  glorious  Death  : 
Where  is  the  woman  whom  this  bliss  befell  ? 


204  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Wm.  Travis. 
Thou  sayest  true  :  what  greater  bliss  can  be 
Than  this  :  from  Life's  most  radiant  joy  to  leap 
With  glowing  cheeks,  and  with  enraptured  heart, 
Into  the  deepest  ecstasy  of  Death, 
Of  Death  for  Country,  Right  and  Liberty. 
This  is  no  foretaste  :  this  is  Heaven  itself. 

Elsie. 
I  should  not  love  thee,  could  I  not  with  thee 
Feel  e'en  the  least  vibration  of  thy  glee  ! 
Still,  let  us  not  give  way  to  passionate  joy. 
But  peacefully  collect  our  thoughts  like  some 
Long  intimate  through  earnest  contemplation 
With  all  the  prospects  of  their  future  journey. 
Pilgrims  for  Canaan,  we  have  now  attained 
The  Sinai  of  our  lives,  whence  we  may  trace 
The  road  we  traveled  o'er  from  out  the  bondage 
Of  Egypt  through  the  desert's  dreary  waste. 
And  where  as  well  we  are  allowed  a  glimpse 
Into  the  haze-dimmed  "  Promised  Land  "  before  us 
Where  so  one  summit  links  the  Past  and  Presence 
And  Future  of  our  lives,  it  is  well  meet 
To  linger  here  awhile  in  meditation. 
And  with  the  truth  here  plucked  for  keepsake-flower, 
Take  leave  forever  from  our  late  abode. 
And  were  then,  while  we  turn  to  go,  a  tear 
To  fall  from  out  our  eye  upon  that  flower. 
That  costly  dew  would  heighten  but  its  bloom. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  205 

I. 

As  children  lightly  in  their  frolic's  mirth 

Forget  the  hand  that  pleased  them  by  some  toy, 

So  we  at  first,  when  planted  on  this  earth, 

'Mid  all  the  charms  that  day  and  night  deploy, 

Became  oblivious  of  our  heavenly  birth, 
And  only  reveled  in  our  harmless  joy, 

All  while  unconscious  of  the  waxing  sin 

Of  selfishness  and  pride  our  hearts  within. 

2. 

Yet  ever  and  anon,  a  *'  low,  still  voice," 

Came  from  our  deepest  hearts'  abyss,  that  told 

Of  one  still  higher  prize,  a  boon  more  choice 
Than  all  the  gifts  of  pleasure,  gain  and  gold  ; 

Yet  though  we  sought  its  trace  'mid  worldly  noise 
In  solitude,  within  our  closet's  fold 

By  night  and  day,  with  eager,  anxious  look, 

Nowhere  we  could  descry  its  hiding-nook. 

3- 
Unheard  by  us,  unnoticed  by  our  eye. 

With  angel's  tread,  despite  our  watchful  care, 
As  floats  the  silvery  moonlight  from  the  sky, 

As  flowery  scent  is  wafted  in  the  air. 
As  downward  sinks  the  night-dew  from  on  high, 

So  calm,  so  soft,  so  gentle  and  so  fair, 
Love  in  our  hearts  at  last  took  its  abode. 
And  drove  from  it  our  selfishness  abroad. 


2o6  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

4. 
And  with  it  came  a  holy  awe  to  reign 

Within  our  hearts,  a  namelesss,  dreaming-glee, 
A  deep  contempt  for  worldly,  hollow  gain, 

A  pride  in  voluntary  poverty, 
A  sweet  delight  in  self-inflicted  pain, 

Withal  a  longing  for  humility, 
As  if  our  all  we  joyfully  would  give, 
If  we  but  in  our  *'  second  I"  could  live. 

5. 
'T  was  Eve, — the  eve  of  hallowed  recognition, 

When  under  Anahuac's  verdant  bower 
Our  blended  love  first  oped  our  spirit's  vision 

To  greater  light,  to  consciousness  of  power. 
When  we  conceived  the  purport  of  our  mission  : 

Through  Love  to  reach  at  Truth.    No  higher  dower 
— We  weened, — could  Earth  contain  or  Heaven  above; 
We  were  contented  here  to  live  and  love. 

6. 
Then  came  the  Night — the  night  of  Grief  which  cast 

Around  our  lives  her  black-draped  velvet-cloak  ; 
Muffling  our  joy,  too  beautiful  to  last, 

She  put  on  us  her  trials'  cross  and  yoke. 
Yet  all  for  good — the  first  pain's  harshness  past. 

Her  earnest  mildness  hallowed  it  and  woke 
Within  our  hearts  a  '^yN^^X.  presentiment, 
AVith  which  our  tears  in  harmony  were  blent. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  20J 


And  now  't  is  Dawn^  the  dawn  of  radiant  Hope, 

Whose  rose-beams,  quivering  through  our  twilight's 
gloom, 

Have  laid  our  sorrow's  sable-curtain  ope 
To  brighter  hue,  to  rays  of  life  and  bloom. 

Distending  now  our  htdiXis'  prophetic  scope, 
With  flowers  she  twines  for  us  the  very  tomb, 

And  joyfully  leads  our  victorious  march 

To  glowing  light  through  Heaven's  triumphal  arch. 


Soon  't  will  be  Day — the  day  of  Love  and  Light, 
Whose  faint  reflex  was  mirrored  in  our  dreams. 

Whose  radiance  made  our  purest  moments  bright, 
Whose  pledge  we  found  within  our  bosoms'  seams  ; 

Cleansed  there  from  earthly  sin,  from  mortal  blight. 
Basking  beneath  the  rays  of  heavenly  beams, 

Our  happy  spirits  twining  more  and  blending. 

Will  melt  in  one  love-atom  without  ending. 

Travis. 

9- 

Oh,  Elsie  !  now,  first  now  I  owe  to  thee 
That  has  my  earthly  life  attained  its  goal. 

While  hitherto  I  read  Heaven's  radiancy 
Within  thy  glance  alone,  within  thy  soul, 


208  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Thy  wisdom  now  has  set  my  spirit  free, 

Boldly  it  rises  to  the  aerial  pole, 
And  clearly  feels,  that,  what  as  Beauty's  share 
It  here  has  known,  will  perfect  Truth  be  there. 

lO. 

Therefore,  oh  Death  !  where, — where  is  now  thy  sting  ? 

Therefore,  oh  Grave  !  where  is  thy  victory  ? 
My  wintery  soul  bursts  forth  to  bloom  of  Spring, 

My  bosom's  discords  swell  to  harmony. 
My  spirit's  veil  is  lift  by  magic  ring, 

From  dross  refined,  my  powers  rise  valiantly; 
And  from  the  cup  of  Love  with  ecstasy 
I  quaff  the  draught  of  Immortality. 
David  Crockett. 

\^Ap pears  at  the  door^ 
Now  it  is  time  !  the  enemy  approach  ! 

\^Exit?[ 
Wm.  Travis. 
II. 
Thou  sayest  true  !  my  friend  !  now  it  is  time  ! 
When  so  we  yearn  for  higher,  better  sphere. 
When  fall  on  us  such  beams  from  heavenly  clime. 

When  o'er  our  hearts  is  spread  such  comfort's  cheer, 
When  on  our  ear  strikes  such  celestial  chime  : 

Then,  truly  !  it  is  time  to  part  from  here  ! 
Come,  Elsie,  come  !  one  moment  yet  of  pain  : 
Thqn  joy  for  aye  and  happiness  amain. 

[  W7?i.  and  Elsie  Travis  leave  the  chap  el ^^ 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO,  209 

Scene  VI. 
The  Fall  of  the  Alamo. 
One  side  of  the  stage  represents  the  barracks^  at  the  end  of 
which  the  powder-magazine  rises  :  a  low  square  toiver 
with  a  platform  on  the  top.      The  other  side  is  nf holly 
taken  up  by  the  breach^  extendi?ig  in  a  semi-circle  from 
one  front-corner  to  the  opposite  cortier  in  the  rear  of 
the  stage.     Behind  the  breach  lie  the  defenders  of  the 
Alamo  with  bayonets  fixed,  ready  to  receive  the  enemy. 
The  latter  are   heard  approaching  in  the   distance 
under  mar-tial  music  a?id  beating  of  drums. '^ 
Col.   W?n.  Travis  co7nes  from  the  barrack- door ^  taking  his 
position  in  the  center  of  the  breach  beside  his  brother 
J^ames  and  his  captains,  while  Elsie  at  the  same  time 
appears  on  the  top  of  the  powder-magazine  with   a 
lighted  torch  in  her  hand. 

Col.  Wm.  Travis. 
Are  ready  ye,  my  faitliful  men,  to  die 
For  Texas  and  her  Liberty  ? 

All. 

Aye,  Aye  ! 
Col.  Wm.  Travis. 
So  hear  then  your  Commander's  last  harangue 
Ere  wholly  deafened  by  the  weapons*  clang. 
For  months  w^e  have  been  fellow-workmen  here, 
Intent  a  grand,  a  lofty  work  to  rear. 

*  For  the  tune  of  this  March,  see  page  247. 


2IO  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Our  part  is  done,  our  tools  are  laid  aside; 
And  standing  by  we  gaze  with  conscious  pride 
At  what  our  will,  our  strength,  our  energy 
Have  called  from  nought  to  life  and  certainty  ; 
And  though  the  building  is  imperfect  still, 
Though  other  hands  our  labor  must  fulfill — 
Our  arms  have  laid  its  firm  foundation-walls, 
Our  vict'ries  have  adorned  its  spacious  halls, 
Our  blood  has  given  its  sides  their  radiant  hue. 
Our  death  yet  will  cement  it  through  and  through. 
When  then  in  future  years  some  passer-by 
Shall  view  our  structure  with  admiring  eye. 
His  wonderment  will  be  a  silent  praise 
To  all  that  shared  to  mould  its  beauty's  grace, 
While  year  to  year,  as  they  succeed,  hand  down 
Its  builders*  name  in  glory  and  renown. 
And  those  who  live  beneath  its  roof  will  bless 
Its  workmen's  handicraft  and  faithfulness. 
Such  is  the  fame  that  will  on  us  reflect, 
The  servants  of  the  Heavenly  Architect, 
Who  also  chose  this  hand  and  heart  of  mine 
For  overseer  at  his  grand  design. 
Hence  it  becomes  to  me, — ere  we  disband, 
To  go  to  higher  work  in  higher  land. 
There  to  perfect  our  workmanship  and  art, — 
To  thank  you,  comrades,  from  my  inmost  heart 
For  your  support  and  stout  fidelity, 
Your  ready  zeal  and  confidence  in  me. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  21  1 

Without  you  this  defence  had  been  a  farce, 

With  you  its  glory  rises  to  the  stars; 

Without  you  my  endeavors  had  been  vain, 

With  you  Man's  highest  palm  falls  to  my  gain. 
So  by  your  gallant  captains'  hands  receive 
My  gratitude  as  from  them  I  take  leave. 
Come,  Oldham,  Evans,  Kimble,  Dickinson; 
Shake  hands  with  me;  our  gallant  race  is  won. 
Crockett,  farewell !  but  why  this  thoughtful  brow  ? 

Crockett. 
Beg  pardon  ;  I  rehearsed  a  speech  just  now, 
Wherewith  I  shall  address  Leonidas 
And  his  three-hundred;  as  beneath  I  was 
A  Congressman,  they  will  no  doubt  demand 
A  speech  from  me  !     We  meet  on  heavenly  strand. 

Col.  Wm.  Travis. 
Farewell,  dear  brother  James  !  if  still  I  grieve, 
It  is,  that  thou,  so  young  and  fair,  must  leave 
Earth's  joy  behind;  yet  it  is  better  far, 
That  quickly  here  thou  die  in  honest  War 
Than  slowly  through  the  hands  of  Tyranny  ! 
Farewell !  how  will  thy  mother  pine  for  thee  ! 

James  Travis. 
Mourn  not,  dear  brother;  for  the  joyous  boon 
Of  such  a  death  can  never  come  too  soon  ! 
[  The  sound  of  the  enemy's  drums  and  martial  music  is 
now  heard  7nore  distinctly^ 


212  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO, 

Col.  Wm.  Travis. 

Hark  ye  !  how  close  the  foe  is  now  at  hand, 

Full  many  thousands  Against  our  little  band. 

So  nerve  your  strength,  let  every  sinew  swell 

To  be  a  man,  and  let  your  bayonets  tell, 

Your  swords,  your  muskets  and  your  Bowie-knives, 

How  dearly  ye  have  sold  your  precious  lives. 

Where  none  is  witness  to  your  gallantry. 

There  let  the  enemy's  crippled  numbers  be 

Its  speaking  proof  and  herald. 

\Here  the  7norning-sun  suddenly  bursts  forth  from  he- 
hind  a  bank  of  dark  clouds ?\ 

\Enthusiastically^  But  behold  ! 
God's  hand  has  oped  Heaven's  radiant  gate  of  gold, 
Where  clad  in  robes  of  white  the  heroes  stand 
Of  every  nation,  every  age  and  land, 
To  welcome  you  into  their  marble-dome, 
To  bid  you  make  its  gorgeous  hall  your  home, 
And  by  their  hands  to  lead  you  to  the  seat 
Of  honor.     Hence  your  future  mates  to  greet, 
Intune  once  more  your  "  Hymn  of  Liberty," 
And  on  the  pinions  of  its  melody 
Let  joyfully  your  souls  to  Heaven  ascend. 
There  to  abide  in  glory  without  end. 
Rise,  hero-brethren,  rise  !  your  last  breath  be  : 
"  For  T€xas  and  her  Liberty  !  " 
\All  rise.     At  this  juncture  the  band  of  the  enemy  whose 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO,  21  3 

advance  is  ptainly  heard  from  behind  the  breach^ 
strikes  up  the  trio  of  their  March^  which  serves  as  an 
accompaniment  to  the  Hymn  of  Liberty^  which  the 
defenders  of  the  Alamo  now  intune^ 

All. 

Rise,  comrades,  see  !  the  Heavens  adorn 

Their  gates  with  radiant  charms. 
To  welcome  you,  when  thither  borne 

In  Freedom's  fondling  arms ; 
There  to  abide  in  bliss  and  grace, 
While  live  your  names  in  song  and  praise. 
Rise,  comrades,  rise  !  your  last  breath  be  : 
"  For  Texas  and  her  Liberty  !  " 

\^While  singing  the  last  two  lines,  the  defenders  of  the 
Alamo,  Travis  ahead,  with  Santa  Anna's  sword  raised 
high  in  the  air^  leap  to  the  crest  of  the  breach,  where 
the  front  ranks  of  the  enemy  are  fust  appearing. 
Before  the  onslaught  of  the  Texans,  the  Mexicans  fall 
back,  followed  by  the  former,  so  that  they  are  wholly 
lost  out  of  sight  by  the  spectators.  For  a  short  time 
the  clash  of  arms  is  heard  from  behind  the  stage.  Then 
ensues  a  momentary  lull.^ 

A  Voice. 
{^From  behind  the  breach,  as  of  one  dying.^ 
Come,  Elsie,  to  my  side,  and  hand  in  hand 
We  will  ascend  into  the  Heavenly  Land. 


214  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Elsie. 

Yes,  Travis,  happy  spirit  !  joyfully 

I  follow  thee  to  Immortality. 

[  While  just  then  a  Mexicaii  Ensign  appears  on  the  crest  oj 
the  breach^  where  he  plants  his  standard,  Elsie  throws 
the  torch  into  the  powder-magazine.  A  loud  crash 
Jollows : — the  Mexica?t  soldier  with  his  flag  falls  tj 
the  ground; — the  walls  of  the  barracks  cave  toward  the 
outside^ — the  Alamo  sijiks  into  ruifis.  While  the 
Mexican  band^  stationed  behind  the  breach.^  once  more 
^repeats  the  last  part  of  the  March ^ 

\The  Curtain  slowly  descends^ 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  21  5 


EPILOGUE. 


THE    BATTLE  OF   SAN  JACINTO. 

Scene  I. 
An  open  field  near  Vince's  Bridge,  on  the  grounds  where 
afterwards   the  Battle  of  San  Jacinto   took  place. 
Enters  Bradburn,  haggard,  in  ragged  clothing,  bear- 
ing on  his  arms  and  ankles  iron  rings,  from  which 
the  chains  have  been  filed  off, 
I  have  escaped  !  am  free  from  chains  at  last; 
For  days  and  weeks  I  patiently  have  borne 
Taunts  from  the  lips  and  tortures  from  the  hands 
Of  Santa  Anna  and  his  servile  knaves. 
Each  of  their  vict'ries  brought  me  sneers  and  insults, 
Each  of  their  bloodsheds  added  wounds  to  mine  ; 
But  well  I  have  remembered  every  item 
Of — despot ! — thy  indebtedness  to  me, 
And  quietly  nursed  my  wrath,  till  on  one  day 
With  interest  thousandfold  thou  shalt  repay: 

[  With  ifnpassionate  voice. ^ 
Tyrant !  that  day  has  come  ;  the  hour  has  struck 
That  will  blot  out  thy  pride,  thy  fame,  thy  luck. 
\Continuing  more  quietly?^ 


2l6  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

I  cannot  err  !     God's  finger  points  it  out  ! 

My  light  escape  upon  the  very  spot 

Which,  from  their  threats,  should  see  my  execution, — 

The  bridges,  by  the  freshet  swept  away, 

The  marshy  ground,  impeding  every  step, 

All  these  foreshadow  their  defeat  and  ruin, 

And  more, — as  if  a  god  had  struck  them  blind, 

They,  in  the  recklessness  of  their  success, 

Neglect  the  plainest  rules  of  watchfulness — 

Seest,  tyrant,  not  the  writing  on  the  wall 

That  prophesies  thy  near-impending  fall  ? 

\_He  takes  a  seat  on  a  grassy  knoll.\ 
How  so  familiar  seem  these  grounds  to  me. 
How  touchingly  these  meads  address  my  heart. 
As  if  they  were  my  childhood's  rambling-place. 
Here  o'er  these  fields  the  prancing  charger  bore 
My  daughter  at  my  side  with  fleeting  pace ; 
There  gleam  the  glassy  waters  of  the  bay 
Upon  whose  emerald  waves  we  oft  beguiled 
The  merry  hours  with  sail  and  oar  and  net, 
And  yonder  in  the  hazy  distance  rise  — 

The  pinnacles  of  Anahuac's  Fort, 
Our  former  pleasant,  peaceful,  happy  home — 

[Zr<?  rises. ^ 
Till  broke  the  demon  of  thy  tyranny 
Upon  the  peace  of  every  family. 
What  evil  thou  hast  sown  from  far-off  land. 
That  evil's  harvest-field  shall  be  this  strand. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  2  1/ 

I,  too,  have  sinned,  have  wronged  my  fellow-men. 

Have  raged  against  my  kindred  and  myself. 

But  though  All-gracious  Heaven  may  deem  my  throes 

And  gloomy  bondage  full  atonement's  price 

For  what  my  waywardness  has  brought  about, 

I  must  do  more  ;  my  honor  and  my  fame 

I  must  restore  before  my  countrymen, 

And  in  sublimity  of  earthly  record 

Become  a  fit  companion  to  the  souls 

Of  my  beloved  ones  'mid  celestial  spheres. 

This  done  I  fain  will  yield  my  parting  breath, 

And  find  my  brightest  triumph  in  my  death, 

While,  tyrant,  thou  shalt  live  to  contemplate 

Thy  shattered  power  and  to  bewail  thy  fate. 

Yes,  I  must  die,  will  die,  though  God  forbid, 

That  I  enlist  my  hand  to  end  my  life; 

For  so  much  I  have  learned  in  that  poor  school 

Which  I  must  call  my  sorrowful  career, 

That  one  offence  'gainst  Nature's  ordinance 

Cannot  be  remedied  by  still  another. 

As  at  the  evening  of  some  dismal  day, 

The  radiant  sun  from  the  horizon's  brink 

Once  more  will  clothe  the  somber  firmament 

With  purplish-golden  hues,  before  he  sets — 

I,  too,  will  crown  my  ill-spent,  wayward  life 

By  one  bright  deed,  one  bliss-conferring  act. 

The  proverb's  truth  :  All's  well  that  endeth  well. 

Be  demonstrated  in  my  funeral  knell. 


2l8  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Scene  II. 
Deaf  Smithy  the  Scout ^  appears  with  a  party  of  seven  men 

Bradburn. 
But  see  !  who  comes  ?     'T  is  Texans  :  their  advent 
I  hail  with  joy  :  it  guarantees  success. 

Deaf  Smith. 
Who  art  thou,  fellow,  enemy  or  friend  ? 

Bbadburn. 
My  uniform  betides  the  Mexican, 
My  heart's  pulse  throbs  for  Texas  and  her  freedom. 

Deaf  Smith. 
So  art  thou  a  deserter .?     Strange,  indeed, 
Must  be  the  motive  that  induces  thee 
To  leave  thy  comrades'  banner  at  a  time. 
When  Victory,  the  fickle  goddess,  is 
So  stable  a  companion  of  their  arms. 
When  in  the  fatness  of  the  land  they  revel, 
While  want  and  hopelessness  abide  with  us. 

Bradburn. 
The  purer  my  intention  is. 

Deaf  Smith. 

Thy  name  ? 
Bradburn. 
I  shall  reveal  it  to  thy  general. 
Lead  me  to  him  :  for  my  report  is  urgent. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  2\L) 

Deaf  Smith. 
Then,  Alsbury,  conduct  him  to  the  camp, 
While  farther  we  pursue  our  scouting-tour. 

Bradburn. 
No,  no,  Sir  Scout,  ye  all  must  come  with  me. 
For  every  gallant  arm  is  needed  there. 
'T  is  useless  quite  for  you  to  search  for  news 
That  mine  would  not  exceed  a  hundred-fold 
By  weightiness  and  accurate  account. 
But  ere  we  go,  my  friends,  let  us  destroy 
This  bridge,  to  thwart  the  enemy's  hasty  flight; 
The  swampy  shores  will  stay  their  horses'  feet, 
The  swollen  waves  defy  their  strength  to  cross. 
So  go  to  work;  then  I  shall  follow  you. 

Deaf  Smith. 
Thou,  a  deserter,  unknown  and  despised, 
Commandest  here,  as  if  thou  wert  our  master; 
And  yet  I  know  not  what  it  is  that  prompts  me 
Implicitly  thy  order  to  obey. 
If  I  believed  in  visions,  I  should  ween 
Thou  wert  an  angel  sent  from  heavenly  realms, 
Disguised  in  beggar's  dress,  to  aid  our  cause 
By  thine  advice;  so  beams  thy  eye  inspired, 
And  so  assuring  sounds  to  me  thy  voice. 
So,  friends,  make  haste  to  hurl  these  planks  and  beams 
Into  the  waves;  for  if  that  man  tells  true, 
Our  arms  are  needed  in  the  camp  to-day. 

\^They  throw  the  planks  into  the  river ^ 


220  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO, 

Bradburn. 
[  With  exultation^ 

As  falls  thiis  yoke,  forced  on  the  river's  brow, 
So  shall  the  yoke  of  tyranny  be  severed 
That  weighed  so  heavily  upon  this  land, 
Proclaim,  ye  beams,  wherever  ye  may  fare, 
Proclaim,  ye  rafters,  swimming  to  the  sea, 
That  also  ye  have  done  your  humble  share 
To  set  one  people  more  at  liberty. 
You  fitly  oped  the  tragedy's  prelude, 
Which  now  our  weapons  bravely  shall  conclude. 

\^Exeunt?\ 

Scene  III. 

General  Sam^ Houston's  tent.     Gen.  Houston^  Gen.  Bur- 
leson^ Texan  officers. 

Houston. 
I  have  now  laid  before  you,  Gentlemen, 
The  grounds  wherefore  I  deem  it  wise  to  act 
On  the  defensive,  and  to  fight  our  foes 
Before  our  lines,  than  rather  to  attack 
Their  far  superior  numbers  in  the  field. 
Speak  thy  opinion,  Burleson,  and  state 
What  thou  deem'st  prudent  for  the  good  of  all. 

Burleson. 
Time,  master  of  us  all,  is  just  as  potent 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO,  221 

With  nations  as  with  individuals. 

Each  has  some  moments,  which,  if  wisely  used. 

Will  seize  their  barks  as  by  an  under-tow, 

And  lift  them  on  the  billows  of  success. 

And  though  I  have  no  reason  to  advance 

Than  what  I  feel  within  my  bosom's  shrine, 

A  holy  voice, — I  take  it, — given  by  God, 

I  pray  thee,  Chief, — I  pray  ye,  gentlemen, 

Not  to  foreclose  an  opportunity 

Which  missed  may  nevermore  again  return. 

We  must  attack  the  enemy  to-day. 

This  very  hour,  or  lose  our  chance  forever. 

Houston. 
What  is  with  thee  ?     I  never  heard  thee  speak 
So  deep-mysteriously,  so  strange-perversely. 

Burleson. 
The  more  a  ground  why  thou  shouldst  not  reject 
This  time  my  counsel,  weird   as  it  may  seem. 

Houston. 
Where  highest  7insciom  must  decide  a  deed. 
Thou  wouldst  decline  her  guidance  and  advice  ? 

Burleson. 
*T  is  better,  when  a  spirit  shows  the  way. 
Relieving  us  from  scanning  Wisdom's  scruples. 

Houston. 
Our  plainest  acts  are  ruled  by  common-sense, 
And  in  this  crisis  we  should  waive  its  conduct  ? 


222  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Burleson. 
Prudence  is  good  enough  for  every  day, 
It  needs  a  god  to  guide  in  danger's  hour. 

Houston. 
'T  be  far  from  us  to  doubt  the  help  of  God, 
Who  quickens  human  wit  in  troubled  times. 

Burleson. 

The  voice  of  God  is  best  learnt  through  the  heart 
That  reads  His  signs  with  trusting,  child-like  mind ; 
So  let  us  then  await  our  scouts'  report, 
Which,  as  I  fondly  hope,  will  change  thy  views. 

Houston. 
Just  now  I  hear  the  voice  of  Smith  without; 
Let  him  come  in,  to  render  his  report. 

\A7i  officer  goes  without  to  call  Smith  in.] 

Scene  IV. 
Enter  Deaf  Smith  and  Bradburn. 
Houston. 
Whom  bring*st  thou  here  to  us — a  captive,  Smith  ? 

Deaf  Smith. 
No,  General,  a  deserter  whom  we  met 
At  Vince's  Bridge,  and  who,  as  he  professes, 
Brings  weighty  tidings  from  the  enemy. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO,  223 

Burleson. 
[Placing  himself  squarely  before  Bradburn^  whose  arms 

he  seizes^  and  whose  features  he  scans  with  inten  e 

eagerness .] 
This  face, — this  stature — should  I  know  them  not  ? 
'T  is  Colonel  Bradburn — but,  alas,  how  changed  ! 

Bradburn. 
Yes,  deeply  changed  through  grim  Affliction*s  hand, 
In  face  and  hair, — but  also  changed  in  heart. 

Burleson. 
We  heard  of  it,  though  scarce  we  could  believe  it ; 
So  tell  !  what  leads  thy  journey  to  our  camp  ? 

Bradburn. 
To  call  you  out  to  fight  this  very  hour. 

Burleson. 
Hast,  Chief,  thou  heard  ?     Have,  Generals,  ye  heard  } 
What  greater  proof  of  my  opinion's  justice 
Will  you  require  than  that,  my  word  scarce  uttered, 
It  instantly  and  strongly  is  confirmed.^ 
And  though  it  is  a  beggar,  a  deserter, 
A  traitor,  if  you  will,  that  bears  it  out. 
No  less  he  comes  a  messenger  from  heaven  ! 
For  Providence  has  different  ways  from  ours 
And  uses  means  beyond  our  comprehension. 
But,  Bradburn,  tell  us  now  whereon  thou  basest 
Thy  message  which  to  me  is  clear  enough. 


224  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Bradburn. 

With  less  than  thousand  men  and  thirteen  guns 

Had  Santa  Anna  hardly  crossed  the  river 

In  eager  hurry  to-  prevent  your  flight, 

When  oped  the  heavens  the  sluices  of  their  lakes 

And  sent  upon  the  earth  an  avalanche 

Of  water-floods  which  made  the  plain  a  sea 

And  filled  the  rivers  to  their  utmost  brink. 

The  bridges  by  the  torrents  swept  away, 

The  forces  under  Cos  and  Filisola 

Are  yet  detained  at  Harrisburg  and  Brazos. 

Now,  now  or  never  is  your  time  and  chance, 

Triumphantly  by  one  stroke  of  the  sword 

To  consummate  your  highest  aspirations. 

Oh  !  profit  of  the  moment  ere  it  flees, 

Observe  how  Fortune — God  ! — has  cleared  for  you 

An  unobstructed  path,  upon  whose  goal 

The  laurel-wreath  of  Vict'ry  hangs  suspended. 

Burleson. 
Oh  !  list  to  him,  for  he  is  sent  by  God. 

Houston. 
Where  lies  a  nation's  fate  upon  the  scale, 
It  surely  needs  a  stronger  argument 
Than  a  deserter's  to  decide  upon. 

Deaf  Smith. 
So  let  my  lips  corroborate  his  word. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO,  225 

For  going  past  the  enemy's  camp  this  morn 
No  scouts  were  seen,  no  sentries,  no  intrenchments. 
Like  swarming  bees,  so  roamed  the  Mexicans, 
Some  here,  some  there,  for  fodder  and  for  wood ; 
In  open  fields  they  unprotected  lie 
With  swamps  and  swollen  rivers  in  their  rear, 
And  not  one  bridge  for  their  retreat,  since  we 
At  his  advice  {^pointing  at  Bradburti)  destroyed  the  last 
at  Vince's. 

Houston. 

And  may  not  this  apparent  negligence 
Be  but  a  mask,  a  ruse  to  lure  us  on 
To  our  defeat  upon  his  chosen  ground  ? 

Bradburn. 

These  papers  ta*en  from  Santa  Anna*s  tent 
Will  prove  to  thee,  that  quite  a  different  scheme 
Lies  in  his  plan ;  he  only  bides  the  coming 
Of  Cos  and  Filisola  to  surround 
Your  forces  here,  and  with  one  final  blow 
To  crush  the  hope  of  Liberty  forever. 

\He  hands  so7ne papers  to  Housto?i.\ 
Houston. 
This  only  strengthens  my  opinion  more 
To  wait  for  his  attack  in  our  position  ; 
For  knowing  his  design,  we  lightly  can 
Defeat  it  by  the  weapons  of  his  own. 


226  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Bradburn. 
So  hear  me,  Chief;  so  hear  me,  Generals  ! 
Here  on  my  knees  I  now  beseech  you  all  ! 
\0n  his  knees  he  ci^ouches  round  the  circle  with  uplifted 
hands.     Then  he  opens  his  coat  and  bares  his  arms^  to 
show  his   wounds^  at  ivhich    all  express  the  utmost 
horror^ 
Behold  these  stripes,  behold  these  ghastly  wounds, 
Which  call  aloud  for  vengeance  and  requital. 
And  yet  this. costly  property  of  mine, 
And  the  remembrance  of  my  grievous  wrongs, 
My  daughter's  martyrdom,  her  lover's  death, 
I  fain  will  lay  upon  this  country's  altar. 
Since  far  a  greater  sacrifice  I  brought. 

\^He  rises?[ 
For  list !     Last  night,  when  drunk  with  ardent  wine 
From  pillaged  Harrisburg  obtained,  my  guards 
Were  fast  asleep,  when  Santa  Anna  self 
Lay  on  his  camp-bed  in  unconscious  stupor, 
By  dint  of  weary  filing  I  at  last 
Freed  me  of  chains,  pressed  deep  into  my  flesh. 
On  hands  and  knees  I  crept  then,  where  he  lay. 
He,  he,  the  fiend,  that  wrecked  my  life, — he,  he, 
That  used  to  while  his  leisure-hours  away, 
To  see  me  writhe  beneath  his  cruel  hand  ; 
He,  he,  that  scarce  an  hour  ago  had  struck 
And  stamped  me  in  his  drunken  humor's  fit. 
As  standing  so  before  my  mortal  foe, 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO,  22/ 

I  gazed  upon  his  hateful  countenance, 

Each  raking  pain  I  felt  in  limb  and  heart, 

Each  sneer  engraven  on  my  memory, 

Was  blended  in  one  single  thought  and  feeling, 

One  single  wish  and  joy  : — Revenge  ! 

E'en  then  I  had  unsheathed  his  sword — e'en  then 

I  held  the  glittering  blade  high  in  the  air, — 

E'en  then  I  nerved  me  for  the  wieldy  blow, — 

E'en  then  the  arch-fiend's  life  hung  by  a  thread, — 

When  seemed  an  unseen  hand  to  check  my  arm, 

While  rang  a  soothing  voice  into  my  ear 

That  spake  :  "  Give  him  to  me  !    I,  Freedom,  will 

Avenge  thee  through  the  liberty  of  Texas  !'* 

I  heard,  I  thought,  I  turned,  I  came  away. 

Has  one  of  you  to  show  a  claim  like  potent 

On  Freedom,  I  will  waive  uiy  own;  for  wealth 

And  even  life  cannot  compete  with  it. 

Yet  even  these  I  gladly  will  forego  : 

My  wealth  to  those  impoverished  through  this  war, 

My  life  to  God,  when  in  the  fight  I  fall. 

All  that  I  feel  and  am  so  laid  aside, 

I  am  prepared  to  join  my  friends  above. 

And  soar  a  happy  spirit  o'er  the  land 

I  helped  to  ransom  from  the  tyrant's  yoke. 

Houston. 

My  heart  is  turned  :  I  fain  resign  my  right; 
What  say,  ye,  comrades;  shall  we  wait  or  fight } 


228  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Generals. 
Lead  us  to  battle,  Chief  ! 

Houston. 

So  be  it  then  ! 
Now  go  from  here,  call  out  your  gallant  men, 
And  lead  them  on  to  death  or  victory: 
"  To-day  or  never  !  *'  let  the  watchword  be  ! 

Burleson. 

\Handing  his  sword  to  Bradbui^n^ 
Here,  Bradburn  !  take  my  sword !  no  better  man 
E'er  held  its  hilt  in  Freedom's  battle-van, 

Bradburn. 
Oh,  thanks  !  my  guilt  on  earth  redeemed,  forgot. 
So  ye,  my  friends  in  Heaven,  reject  me  not  ! 

\Exeunt^ 

Scene  V. 

The  conquered  cainp  of  the  Mexicans  on  the  battle-field  of 
San  Jacinto.  The  back-ground  is  filled  with  s7noke^ 
amid  which  soldiers  are  seen  hurrying  to  and  fro. 
The  foreground  represents  a  conquered  battery^  whe^-e 
Bradburn  lies  stretched  on  the  ground,  apparcjitly 
dead,  Sam  Houston^  followed  by  Burleson^  T)eaf 
Smith  a?id  a  Surgeon,  enter  on  the  rear  of  the  battery. 
The  Surgeon  is  seen  bandagijig  General  Houston  s 
wounded  foot^  whenever  he  can  do  so. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  229 

Houston. 
The  victory  is  ours !  on  every  side 
The  enemy  are  fleeing  in  dismay, 
Hotly  pursued  by  our  brave  volunteers. 
But  as  the  night  is  settling  fast  and  swamps 
Hedge  in  the  enemy  beyond  escape, 
I  deem  it  wise  to  end  this  day's  exploits. 
So,  Burleson  !  go,  make  this  will  of  mine 
Beknown  unto  the  several  commanders, 
That  here  we'll  make  our  camp-stead  for  the  night, 
Where  I  await  their  presence  and  reports. 
Sweetest  a  victor  sleeps  upon  the  field 
Which  heard  his  shout  g,nd  saw  his  gallant  deed. 

\Exit  Burleson^ 
Come,  Smith ;  come.  Surgeon  !  let  us  choose  our  seats 
On  yonder  gun,  to  bide  our  friends*  return. 

\They  go  toward  the  other  side  of  the  stage.] 
But  see,  who  lies  here  dead.     'T  is  Colonel  Bradburn  ! 
[Houston  takes  a  seat  on  a  gun-carriage^  while  the  Surgeon 
bandages  his  foot ^ 

Deaf  Smith. 
Yes,  General,  it  is  he!     Upon  this  spot 
He  fell  and  died,  pierced  by  a  musket-ball. 
When  formed  our  men  in  line,  we  took  our  stand 
Upon  the  right  of  Sherman's  regiment. 
Advancing  silently  at  the  command, 
With  every  step  the  Colonel  seemed  to  tower 


230  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Taller  and  taller,  like  an  airy  vision, 

Till  when  the  enemy's  cannon  oped  on  us, 

He,  with  a  voice  that  drowned  their  mighty  roar. 

Called  out  to  Sherman's  volunteers  :  '''Remember 

The  Alamo  I "  *     As  darts  the  lightning-bolt 

Athwart  the  air,  so  flashed  this  battle-cry 

Through  every  bosom,  and  from  wing  to  wing 

The  startled  breezes  bore  its  thundering  echo. 

Awed  by  this  deafening  peal  the  enemy 

With  terror  broke  their  ranks;  this  battery 

Alone  sustained  its  fire  against  our  men. 

They  wavered  for  an  instant;  wresting  then 

The  regimental  standard  from  the  ensign. 

And  waving  it  with  vigor.  Colonel  Bradburn 

Rushed  straight  against  the  cannon's  mouth  and  planted 

The  banner  on  the  rampart.     So  he  stood 

In  high  relief  against  the  smoke-wrapt  sky, 

Ere  yet  our  men  had  scaled  the  parapet ; 

But  when  I  reached  his  side,  he  suddenly 

Sank  lifeless  to  the  ground,  exclaiming  yet  : 

'*//  is  achieved :  the  fight  is  won — I  die  !  " 

But  see,  he  moves,  he  lives,  he  opes  his  eyes. 

\I)eaf  Smith,  kneeling  down,  bends  over  Bradburn?\^ 
Bradburn. 
[  With  faint  z'oiee.~\ 
Where  am  I  ? 

*  The  battle-cry  of  the  Texans  in  the  battle  of  San  Jacinto. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO,  23  I 

Deaf  Smith. 
In  thy  countryman's  embrace, 
Who  fondly  hopes  thy  life  may  yet  be  spared. 

Houston. 
Quick,  Surgeon,  leave  me  and  attend  on  him, 
To  save  his  life  !  his  gallantry  deserves  it  ! 
\Under  the  Surgeon's  hand,  and  with  the  assistance  of 
Deaf  Smithy  jB?'adburn  revives  more  and  more,  so 
that  with  mute  delight  he  can  manifest  his  interest  in 
the  incidents  ofl 


--'-^  Lihngf 


Scene  VII. 
Enter    Texan    Volunteers^  bearing    Mexican   battle-flags^ 
which  they  present  to  General  Houston. 

A  Volunteer. 
Hail,  General  Houston  !  at  thy  feet  we  lay 
These  flags,  the  trophies  of  this  glorious  day. 

Houston. 
I  thank  you,  friends,  in  our  Republic's  name ; 
Her  power,  her  freedom  be  your  prize  and  fame. 
[  Other  volufiteers  bring  Santa  Amia's  sword^  lost  by  hiiii 
during  his  flight^ 

A  Volunteer. 
Victorious  Chief  !  we  put  into  thine  hand 
This  costly  falchion,  Santa  Anna's  brand. 


232  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Houston. 
I  take  it  as  a  pledge,  that  Levermore 
That  foe  of  Texas  will  invade  her  shore. 

\^0^/ier  volunteers  bring  in  Col.  Almonte  as  prisoner^ 
A  Volunteer. 

To  thee  we  bring,  made  captive  on  our  raid, 
Colonel  Almonte,  Santa  Anna's  aid. 

Houston. 
He  shall  bear  witness,  that  our  arms'  success 
Is  equaled  only  by  our  gentleness. 

\Cheers  in  the  rear  of  the  stage.     Gen.  Burleson  comes  in 
haste^  followed  by  Texan  volunteers 7\ 

Burleson. 
Hail,  Chief  !  e'en  now  a  gallant  volunteer 
Brings  Santa  Anna  self  as  prisoner  here. 

Houston. 

\Rising.\ 
Has  been  to  us  that  precious  hostage  given, 
Then  Free  is  Texas  !     Thank  the  Lord  in  Heaven  ! 
\^At  the  announcement  of  the  last  report  Bradburn  makes 
signs  to  the  Surgeon  and  Deaf  Smith  to  raise  hiifi 
up.      This  done,  he  speaks  with  ever-risiitg  voice,  while 
the  volunteers  form  a  semi-circle  around  him.'] 

Bradburn. 
Yes,  thank  the  Lord  !  whose  mighty  arm  has  wrought 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  233 

This  end  sublime,  too  high  for  human  thought. 

Yes,  thank  the  Lord  !  whose  love  has  many  more 

And  greater  blessings  still  for  you  in  store. 

For  mystery's  veil  now  from  my  eye  withdrawn, 

I  see  this  land  emerge  from  Freedom's  dawn. 

To  broader  sway,  to  greater  sphere  of  might, 

Maintaining  it  in  many  a  gallant  fight. 

With  millions  I  behold  her  borders  filled 

Of  freemen,  brave,  intelligent  and  skilled, 

Whose  industry  lays  ope  her  mountains'  yields, 

And  turns  her  plains  to  fertile  harvest-fields  : 

Whose  energy,  as  by  a  magic  wand, 

Lets  cities  rise,  where  forest-groves  now  stand, 

Whose  handicraft  makes  ring  her  sea-girt  shore 

And  enters  far  into  her  bosom's  core. 

So,  so  the  youthful  State  shall  grow  in  power, 

Yet  will  she  reach  still  higher  glory's  dower 

When  entering  in  the  Union's  radiant  gates 

She  blends  her  future  with  her  Sister-States. 

All  obstacles,  all  causes  of  delay. 

That  check  their  progress,  moved  from  out  the  way, 

Oh,  joyous  contest,  that  will  then  ensue, 

Oh,  glorious  race  before  whole  Mankind's  view : 

When  for  the  highest  prizes  of  humanity 

They  lay  them  out  with  zeal  and  energy. 

When  fall  the  richest  blessings  one  by  one 

On  each  and  yet  on  all  in  unison  : 

Strength^  won  in  constant  practice  of  their  powers, 


234  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

Then  Wealthy  acquired  by  search  of  Nature's  dowers, 
Then  Peace,  ensured  by  their  imposing  might, 
Then  Happiness,  their  efforts'  well-earned  right, 
Then  Grace  and-Beauty,  as  they  stately-grand 
Approach  their  goal,  joy-flushed  and  hand  in  hand, — 
United,  yet  distinct,  none  like  the  rest, 
Yet  each  in  standard  equal  to  the  best  : 
Oh,  heavenly  bliss  !  e'en  with  the  spirit's  eye 

To  have  beheld  this  prospect  and to  die. 

\^He  sinks  lifeless  to  the  ground.  The  soldiers  holding  the 
banners  let  them  droop  upon  him.  All  stand  pro- 
foufidly  moved.  The  curtain  falls.  When  it  rises  once 
more  in  the\ 

Scene  VIII. 
William  Travis  and  Elsie,  the  latter  attired  as  Goddess 
of  Victory,  are  seen  standing  amid  a  transfguring  light 
at  the  head  of  Bradburn,  upon  which  Elsie  puts  a 
laurel-wreath.  The  soldiers,  all  of  whom  have  left  the 
stage,  are  overheard  singifig  the  following 

HYMN   OF   VICTORY.* 
I. 

Chorus, 
It  is  achieved  !  the  fight  is  won  ! 
And  what  our  doubting  hearts  begun 
*  For  the  tune  of  this  Hymn  see  page  252. 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  235 

Upon  these  fields  in  years  gone  by 

Stands  wrought  before  our  wondering  eye  ! 

Solo  Voice. 
Such  is  not  due  to  human  hand, 
'T  is  God,  who  thus  has  blest  your  land  ! 
So,  like  the  scent  of  sacrifice. 
Let  ye  to  Him  your  thanks  arise. 

Other  voices,^ 

Praise  the  Lord  ! 

Chorus, 

Praise  Him,  ye  Earth  and  Sky, 

Praise  Him,  oh  Sea  ! 

Glory  to  God  on  high  : 

Texas  is  free. 

2. 
Chorus, 
Your  merry  blasts  ye  trumpets  send 
Throughout  the  land,  from  end  to  end, 
To  gladden  by  your  tidings'  peal, 
Where  throbs  a  heart  for  Texas'  weal. 

Solo  Voice. 
So  also  let  their  joyous  sound 
Waft  over  every  hero's  mound, 

*  These  voices  should  be  represented  as  coming  from  the  four 
different  points  of  the  compass. 


236  THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO. 

To  tell  him  how  you  dearly  prize 
His  glorious  deeds,  his  sacrifice. 

Other  Voices. 

Praise  the  Lord  ! 

Chorus. 

Praise  Him,  ye  Earth  and  Sky, 

Praise  Him,  oh  Sea  ! 
Glory  to  God  on  High: 
Texas  is  free  ! 

3. 
Chorus. 

Henceforth  our  Texan  realm  shall  be 
A  sacred  fane  of  Liberty ; 
No  foreign  Lord  shall  evermore 
Wield  here  his  sway,  invade  her  shore. 

Solo  Voices. 

So  vow  upon  this  holy  ground 
A  proud,  a  valiant  State  to  found, 
Where  culture  dwells,  where  law  is  feared, 
Where  Truth  is  honored,  God  revered. 

Other  Voices, 
Praise  the  Lord ! 


THE  FALL  OF  THE  ALAMO.  237 

Chorus. 

Praise  Him,  ye  Earth  and  Sky, 

Praise  Him,  oh  Sea  ! 
Glory  to  God  on  high: 
Texas  is  free  ! 

[Curtain.] 


HYMNS. 


No.  1.    HYMIT  or  TEXAN  LIBEETY. 


Finale  of  the  First  Act. 


8pi7itedly. 


^^ 


-N--J- 


3^ 


g-  t 


Composed  by  the  Author, 

-  r  ^ 


5ffi= 


;3s=Se 


E£t 


"i^-J-k ' —  ■^' — ^i ^-\ — t- 

Hise,  valiant  yeomen,  one  and  all  1    And     take  your  sword  in 


^siii 


^e* 


=«=«= 


£s 


EliE 


/' 


-f-i — r 


^^ 


fi^^3?^ 


-i-e- 


f£A 


?i^=^|^ 


-tjT-b^ 


-v-t- 


hand;  For  hear  you  not  the  thrilling  call  Of  freedom  thro'  the  land  ?  So 


fe^^^^^ 


s± 


^^3EE(E 


i 


t=t= 


tz-j — \m^-^ 


^±%l~ 


I 


i 


fe^=^- 


^=1 


:'^=fcbg3p=i4z=Eiti==t2:=U=i*=i*=^=:^5t=: 


£^ 


let  her  not  appeal  in    vain,  But  raise  e'en  here  her  holy  fane. 


242 


THE  FALL   OF   THE  ALAMO. 


Solo. 


Chorus.    Solo. 


Chobus.    Solo 


tes 


m^ 


:e- 


=|a=i»i: 


-X— ^ 


ilvi-^ 


3^-=l8d 


z^-z^z. 


Hise,  freemen,  rise !  (ame,)  rise,freeinen,rise!  (arise ^)  rise,freemeD, 


rise  I    (a- m^*,)  your  watchword  be:    For  Tex -as     and     her 


i5fe^^^==K=i 

=^    s     r  pig     g     g     ^-L.       1*^^  -rn^ 

l               lib    - 

— £  -4 !!?_U*?-    .  *       k       *       P       t         J      •  - 

_U-J ^— L.^ ^ p ^__L_, , i^_JL 

er  -  ty.    For    Tex  -  as      and    her    lib   -  or    -    ty. 

>      |._._Jj      >        •           1         1         1         1         "^1  -,  -. 

— *t — i — p  -  ^£ — S m • J M = — -. '  - 

^^^Vb    1 

^~r r-n ^ *=aLiz«^ itiizq lib 

No.  2.    COL.  CEOCEETT'S  SONG. 

After  a  German  Air. 


Song. 


HYMNS. 


243 


^^=S=te 


=p:-(?= 


fe=gr-r-=it= 


Zit=t 


it=tz 


-r 

in    the     wilds        of   Ten-nes  -  see,       With  Indians  round  a- 


-jf-^-ri--^^---^: 


W 


^3^ 


-J 1= \-=^ 


t=^=t=^ 


1 r 


=i=e: 


^ 


bout, This  child  was    reared,    and  grew  to  be      A 


J  J 


|i^ 


-=3^^=^ 


f 


:|-t-=rp- 


& 


=jB==f= 


^^t 


-1 r 


::t 


-1- 
dar  -  ing    bun  -  ter  -  scout. 


He  fought  the  brind-ed 


m 


5^= 


-4= U 


244 


7'HE  FALL    OF   THE  ALAMO. 


m 


-r-yf- 


=pzq-?= 


=ti=il=:tti 


cat  -   a-mount,  And  dragged  the  panther  from    his  haunt ;  And 


=I^T= 


*       %       %- 


^^^ 


^^ 


-r 


f 


jy-r--. 


=p 


=b2=il=:t}»= 


grap-pled  with  the    lynx    and  bear,  And  scaled  the  ea-gle's 


-«— «=t: 


^ 


^ 


^7.T=^: 


Ei^ 


^ 


tTq= 


^=^ 


=l?z:5it 


-t- 


-t- 


cliflf-built  lair  :  And  thus  it    came        that  with  his  name       Was 


A 1- 


t==t 


HYMNS. 


245 


t^-<* 


-i^-^ 


ff 


-r 


-r- 


-r 


blent    a       dar  -  ing       bunt-  er"'s  fame  ;  Aud  tbus   it  came  tbat 


f^^ 


}-zl=X. 


a^r*=pg 


=!=q; 


m 


^=s^ 


=rS-iS- 


m^ 


-9-        -W        -W        -Wt 
-I 1 r-J- 


i 


SE. 


with  bis    name     Was  blent  a       dar  -  in^;     hunt-er's    fame. 


^^m 


-I — I- 


--*- — '•^~ 


NO.  3.    HYMN  OP  THE  LONE  STAR  FLAG. 


Finale  of  the  Second  Act. 


Alia  Marcia, 


Composed  by  the  Author. 


^ 


-w--^^_im- 


:S:=r-S— j=pf: 


i — "--i — t — i — i — "-^ — i — ' 1 — M 1 1- 

There  was  a    band  wan  and  for-lorn,   By    cease-less  toil  and 


r-r^-r-r~T^ 


246 


THE   FALL    OL'    rilE   ALAMO, 


watching  worn,  Cut  off  from  friends,  from  homes,  from  world,  With 


-t — \ — I — r 


1 — h — i — r 


Baritone  Solo. 


F^E 


n. 


No  hope  was  theirs  of 
Humming  Voices. 


shot  and   shell  np  -  on    them  hurled. 


staccato,  pp 


#feE^^; 


^^ 


fi=f 


"^^ 


Sg^^i^l^Eg^^giEii 


aid    or  flight.    Death  front-ed     ev  -  'ry-where  their  si<;ht ;  But 

!__ 1 \ 1_^ i 1 1-__^_! 1 ! 1 


L-fenrg- 


::g_g_g-:^ 


— i 1 1- 

-m A m— 


3^3=:*=^:^^= 


^^"^ 


—I 1 u 

-\ — I — r- 


n — I — I — =r= 


HYMNS. 


247 


sempre  cresc. . 


** 


5&?_^gi^Egi^^^gg^^^gf3z| 


faltered  they  ?  No!  uo!  instead  They  flung  this  banner  overhead  : 
--1 1- 


^i5*E*E«=«^?^^f^i^p^E?5?E? 


-I 1 — t- 


1 1 — t — t- 


ESEE 


1 — r 


1 ^ — 1 — r 


Chorus. 


?_i 


-^^■ 


r-(*:-q*i^- 


N   h 


Flag  of  the  Lone  Starl  thou  glorious  sign!  Where  i:?  the  banner  that 


:^=^z|*z*=iz 


-*-^ — m-M. 


1     I    I 


j3M=^= 


i^^z 


^ 


b#— M— S=yl 1 1 *-* ^^- 


-t ^—)i^     'I     '^i.,,,'  f 


( 


rtsbSa: 


ri  -  vals  with  thine?  Baptized  in  heroes'  blood,by  martyrs  unfurled, 
J^-  ^  M  m       -^-  m  m  ^    ^    ^     -    qOtztie  -•- 


Sr^tE 


^i^iiz:^=j«=t»z 


_j^__^_^ — k— ^r 


-e— e-«- 


:fc^=z:ji^z=z^= 


E-l^^ 


=?=:^=^=i>^=5l- 


Flag      of  the  Lone  Sta"  I  thoa  pride       of  the  world  I 


^7- 
^S^ 


^S=S^*:. 


J?_L__tgg!f 


zt«=is= 


-!» gZlgZ 


248 


THE  FALL    OF    THE  ALAMO. 


NO.  4.    PEAYER  BEFORE  BATTLE. 

Music  by  W.  GREEF. 
mf         _        cresc. 


Forsake  me  not !  when  shadows  lie  around  me,  When  night  and  darkness 

cres. 


everywhere  hold  bound  me :  When  per     -     il's  gloom  has  fall  -  en 


t-^-r 


pp 


f 


^^^ 


5EfE 


te^ 


When  peril's  gloom 


^ 


r-M — 

to      my    lot:     Thou  Fount  of  Light !    for  -  sake       me  not. 


^=E^= 


r^=^ 


zpiigz 


pp 


No.  5.    THE  ANTHEM  OF  THE  ALAMO. 


With  Energy, 
f 


Finale  of  the  Third  Act. 

Composed  by  the  Author. 


fc^ 


^^ 


— I F^ — r 

<9 — ^L 


■■m^^^ 


When  o'er  our  land  the  war-cloud  drew.  And  loud-ly  Freedom's 

1  (S    J        J  II  I       J.         I 


£b: 


S^ 


^ 


1 — r 


-»—M—ii- 


HYMNS. 


249 


^ 


^=?= 


y?=^ 


^4= 


^■. 


~rj^ 


I 


I 


trum  -  pet  blew,  We  rushed  to  arms,  re  -  solved  to     be       A 


^-i 


=^-t^= 


J  / 


I 


d=ij= 


-1- 


^r^=i::. 


t:=r=^=^=s=; 


pp  • 


staccato.  ^* 

cit  -  a  -  del  'gainst  ty-ran-ny.    Hence  fear  thee  not,  dear  Tex  -  an 


IS 


-I— -1 ^-J4-J!^ 


pp 


^^=S^g=£3i3=5^g=f^-^=g=^ 


I — r 


( 


&#^^fl3ipp|i:-p«p 


Land,  Thy  safe-ty    lies  in     trusty  hand  ;  For  firm  will  stand  'gainst 


fe^^^3=iz 


*r=r^r-r 


^-zS:—^- 


1 — r 


cv-ery  foe  Thy  vanguard  at   the    A  -  la  -  mo  ;     For  firm  will 


l^bili 


|^^^:pfiM 


stand  'gainst  ev  -  ery  foe  Thy  vanguard  at    the    A  -  la  -  mo. 


zfctaur 


-3-^ 


250 


THE  FALL   OF   THE  ALAMO. 


No.  6.    MEXICAN  BATTLE-MAECH.* 

Finale  of  the  Fourth  Aet. 

Composed  by  the  Author. 


=1= 


:p=p: 


=s=^^- 


^W^ 
-{-—«-»-( 


Drums. 


^§ili 


±j- 


II  Basso  marcato. 


-arsrat  -wf-^9t 


I  1st. 


^fi^:g::i!I;g:£I5:g|:g: 


^^: 


"5-1 ■^^-  'z^IZ^Tl^^J^i 


izn^dii^zzi^rst:! 


*  The  first  two  parts  of  this  March,  endinsr  «t  the  Trio,  should  be  re- 
peated over  and  over  aQ:aiii,  until  the  time  when  the  Texan  patriots  are 
ready  to  join  into  the  Trio  by  singing  their  Hvmn, 


HYMNS. 


251 


P 


fes: 


a^: 


^^^ 


i^ 


E^ 


"^rsfS^r" 


"3-r5 


^=1!?:: 


T     -w 


=iti«= 


j=;-j 


^^i^Sii^^ 


^SS^SEE 


:^rr 


i^i±5 


■irBzen 


Trio.— Stony  <)/■  <A«  Texan  Patriots. 


^-^^ 


■P ta bB !■- 


=!«=!»= 


-i^-r 


g=i= 


Rise,  comrades,  see  I  the  heav'ns  a-dorn 


:g=B- 


■^-=V- 


:^: 


Their 


Pi^--5- 


SS?E 


=P=i): 


=S=«- 


-V-- 


Continvation  of  the  Mexican  March. 


=  £^ 


r..^tlZ-^^=^-qi^.P_ 


#  *    «:    5: 


1 


1^:=!^^ 


MzitutL 


rrii^z 


_g_ 


252 


THE  FALL    OF    TLLE  ALAMO. 


gates  with  ra-diant  charms  ;       To  welcome  you  when  thither 


^i7;9=&7~r-r— ng^- 


iiil 


E^f^t=3 


^. 


-t--r 


W- 


&^i^=1z 


-5^' 


-•h«-«-«lT-«-«  - 


\§ 


^S 


-^ — ^*^ 


J«^g^^*^3i^^    ' 


>-r-J- 


^^^^^^^ 


^ 


:i?^t 


?EEi3E 


-:il-^- 


^S 


|__L| 


mf      ^ 


rfe^E 


=e=»: 


i^rltH 


borne 


^* 


5ib^=t 


In       Freedom's  fond  -  ling  arms  : 


pSzr— gTizjsrzziir? 


zt=t»z 


rF^:^ 


-(?:ee^=rp- 


There 


rnf 


zk^zd 


HYMNS. 


253 


'Pt^=^- 


UAjLh. 


■f=jfkz. 


|^i^=t=: 


to   a-bide  in  bliss  and  grace  While  live  your  names  in  song  and 


j^    -w     -^ 


\mw^g^p^^i^^ 


P^=^ 


h'M. 


Travis.      Chorus.    Travis.        Chorus.    Travis. 


:ff=«=«=^ 


^^a^ii^^a^^El^ 


I 


(a-mg)  {a-rise) 

praise.  So,  comrades,  rise  1    Rise,  comrades,  rise  I       Rise,  comrades, 
(a-rise)  (a-rife) 

fefezd^    .—     i._     ^-^    ..        r— -r— r- 


W^i 


^=^= 


Pizzigzigz 


1^=1—= 


t=^= 


->'-t- 


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I 


5fc^— 5-- 


^fe^ 


:=t 


PS^; 


t^ 


a,^i=* 


1-=1= 


•-— * —m 1 — I- 


zgzpg^-^-g- 


zfczlazziaiz 


1^11^=1= 


^-- 


=*in= 


254 


THE  FALL   OF   THE  ALAMO. 


J    Chorus. 

>..A^- 

42.' 

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1 

1         ,         ,.,.      .  ,         J 

rise !    A  -  rise  I 

our  last  breath  be : 

For 

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After  a  momentary  lull^  during  which  the  destruction  of  the  Alamo  takes 
place^  and  while  the  curtain  is  falling^  the  last  part  of  the  March  is  played 
by  the  band  alone. 


HYMNS. 


255 


-r '  T-^ 


jg^^gfr^rg^^ 


^^^ 


No.  7.    HYMN  or  VICTOEY. 


Finale  of  the  Epilogue. 

Composed  by  the  Author. 

\ — ^-^—.1^.-3 — ^- 


|=^Etg^g; 


=3= 


-t- 


-f- 


-I — r- 


r  It         is       a  -  chieved ;  the     figrht     is  won ;    And 

(Up  -    on     these    fields    in      years    gone        by,    Stands 


^Wf^- 


S= 


-;-— , j— , 1 1 -r-^-- 


2S6 


THE  FALL   OF   THE  ALAMO, 


Solo. 

Such  is    not  due    to 
P 


what  our  doubt-ing  hearts  be  -   gun, ) 
wrought  be-fore     our  won  -  d'ring   eye. ) 


Piano. 


:e 


i^= 


E^ 


*? 


hu  -  man  hand ;  'Tis  God  who  tlius  hath  blessM  your  land  1   So 
/Aj I Jfi^ . , ,  _ _ 


^^ 


^^m 


-s?^-* 


Wi 


=11= 


m. 


like  the  smoke  of  sac  -  ri-fice,  Let  ye    to  Him  your  thanks  arise. 
-^^„-  /?Al  I     ritard.     tr      ^, 


-&E^Z-^ 


m 


4=at 


=g= 


w 


I  ritard.  I 


Single  Voices,    cre^c. 


Praise  the  Lord  I  Praise  the  Lordl  Praise  the  Lord!  Praise  the  Lordj 


^^^^ 


3i^ 


accei/iranajO . 


HYMNS. 


257 


Chorus.  .^^ 


Praise  the  Lord !  Praise  Him,  ye  earth  and  sky !  Praise  Him,   oh 


^t^ 


:g-i: 


-I — r- 
V     V 


^ 


-^- 


i=iz 


=t 


fff 


if' 


i      i 


=t«=:t«= 


^ 


—I — ^- 


^z=t»= 


:f^=:i*: 


-m. 


=i=--=i= 


=^=}= 


-|--T 


Trumpets. 
sea  I         Glo  -  ry    to  God  on  high  !  Texas    is      free ! 

r  J    -^    -ft  -j^ 


4—1- 


/     V 


I& 


^t= 


#' 


fffmolto  ritard. 


THE    END. 


